I agree. Loaning in a 'lynchpin' player leaves you a hostage to fortune unless you have a loan period firmly agreed. They play well and can be recalled, leaving you with a bloody great hole in the team. If the loaning club isn't prepared to go for a season loan with a 'mutually agreed' recall clause, then I'd look elsewhere. I think stability and consistency are a great thing in a team game. Not quite the same if you are looking at loaning in youngsters who may or may not shine, but if your 'top transfer target' is a loanee, you'd better make sure you've got him all season.