Transfer Halted: Why Christantus Uche can’t leave Palace this winter

Crystal Palace midfielder Christantus Uche will not be allowed to leave the club during the January transfer window because of FIFA rules.

Uche has struggled to get regular playing time since joining Palace from Getafe in the summer of 2025. Under manager Oliver Glasner, he has made only seven appearances in all competitions.

There have been rumours that some Bundesliga clubs are interested in signing him.

However, according to The Athletic, FIFA’s “two-club rule” prevents a player from playing official matches for more than two clubs in one season.

A player can register with up to three clubs in one season, but is only allowed to play official games for two of them. This means Uche can only return to Getafe or stay at Crystal Palace.

Uche is currently on loan at Palace, so a return to Getafe is only possible if the loan agreement includes a break clause.