How much do you pay your agent? Fees explained

Agents can open doors, negotiate packages and protect interests. The goal here is not to demonise them — it is to understand what you sign and what it costs over time.

What the fee is

The fee is payment for representation: a percentage of salary, transfer, bonuses or a mix. It may be paid by the club, by you or shared — the detail matters for cashflow.

What should be clear in writing

Exact percentage and which sums it applies to
When it is paid (monthly, on signing, on transfer)
Who pays: you, the club or both
Which services you actually get
Mandate length and how the relationship ends
What happens if you change agents

A good agent is worth paying

Serious representation can mean better offers, safer clauses and less time lost on negotiation. Pay is fair when value is clear — not when a percentage exists “because that’s how it works”.

Questions before you sign

How much do I pay in total over the contract?
What if I am loaned out or not playing?
Is there exclusivity? On which territories / deal types?
Can I see the contract template first?

Red flags (not accusations)

Pressure to sign “today” without reading time
Refusal to put the fee clearly in writing
“Guaranteed” transfer promises without detail
Deliberate confusion about who pays what
Cash requests without documents

The lesson

An athlete who understands fees stays a partner, not a confused client. Respect good agent work — and ask for equally professional clarity.

Next article in the “Money in sport” series

→ Your contract is more than salary

Educational content only. Not personalised financial, tax or legal advice. For your situation, speak to a qualified professional.