Is There a 'Club World Cup Tax'? Football Transfer Market Expert Weighs In

Is There a 'Club World Cup Tax'? Football Transfer Market Expert Weighs In London, England – June 10, 2025 – Frank Khalid OBE, a prominent businessman and avid Chelsea FC supporter, recently sparked debate within the football community by suggesting the existence of a "Club World Cup tax." In a short video posted on social media, Khalid argues that clubs participating in the FIFA Club World Cup often inflate the asking prices for players, capitalizing on the increased competition. "Every time Chelsea inquire about a player, other clubs are looking for a premium," Khalid stated in his video. He cited the example of other clubs seeking higher fees when players are associated with the Club World Cup. While Khalid acknowledges the speculative nature of his claim, his assertion raises questions about the potential influence of the tournament on the transfer market. His comments highlight the complex financial dynamics within professional football and suggest that participating in high-profile competitions can have unforeseen consequences on player valuations. The debate continues as to whether this is a widely recognized phenomenon or merely a perception.