The Premier League big guns will have the financial power to blow away other clubs in the summer transfer market.
The potential loss of income from broadcast deals and match-day income will put huge pressure on the finances of most the top flight.
But Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea are set to benefit because of backing from wealthy owners and strong commercial success.
Kieran Maguire, a football finance expert with the University of Liverpool’s Centre for Sports Business Group, said: “The transfer market is going to collapse this summer.
"It is a cut-throat industry. Any club which has been run well financially and has a strong balance sheet will be in the position to take advantage of the market because it is going to be a buyers’ market.
“Last summer Manchester United had to pay the asking price for Harry Maguire of £80million in a lump sum instead of instalments. That is indicative how quickly the market for players has reversed.
“So if big clubs like United have the cash – and they do – are there other clubs have to sell even if they don’t want to? Yes there are.
“Chelsea and City are in a strong position due to owner wealth, United due to a strong balance sheet, Liverpool due to winning trophies and the rewards from that.”
The annual Premier League club valuation report from pre-coronavirus figures valued Tottenham as the most valuable Premier League club at £2.56bn in May 2019.
Maguire added: “ Arsenal are looking the weakest of the big six because they don’t look like they will qualify for the Champions League, there are issues over wages and the owners historically have been reluctant to put money into the club.”
