[baldy]

From when Cooky had this rule, The players have a week from when the new contract is offered before he looked elsewhere, even then the offer is still there until a player is signed as a replacement. That could be 1 week after the 1 week deadline or it could be 1 week before the start of the season, providing a replacement hasn't been found.

I think it helps Coleman know where he stands with what positions he needs to replace early on rather than wasting 2 months hoping a player signs and then tells you he is off elsewhere and more importantly helps get players who want to play for the club rather than letting a players agent tout his player round getting a better deal all summer!