General
tapping up
What does tapping up mean?
Making an unauthorised approach to a player who is under contract at another club, without permission.
"The club were fined for tapping up the midfielder before the window opened."
Origin
British transfer slang; to 'tap up' is to sound someone out covertly.
Frequently asked questions
What does tapping up mean in football?
Tapping up is making an unauthorised, illegal approach to a player (or their agent) who is still under contract at another club, without first getting that club's permission.
Is tapping up against the rules?
Yes. It breaches football regulations because contracted players can't be approached without their current club's consent, and clubs can be fined or sanctioned for it.
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