By Martin Graham | 4th Sep 2024
With the summer transfer window now closed, Premier League clubs are still on the lookout for free agents to bolster their squads. These players, currently unattached and available for immediate signing, present a valuable opportunity for teams that missed out on key targets. Here’s a look at some of the top free agents still available, each of whom could make a significant impact if signed.
Experienced defenders and goalkeepers on the market
Keylor Navas, at 37, is a seasoned goalkeeper who recently parted ways with Paris Saint-Germain. Initially expected to join Monza, the move fell through, leaving the Costa Rican shot-stopper without a club. Navas, who enjoyed successful stints at both Real Madrid and PSG, also made an impression during his loan spell at Nottingham Forest, appearing 17 times in the Premier League last season.
Serge Aurier, the 31-year-old right-back, is another experienced defender on the market. After spells with Tottenham and Nottingham Forest, Aurier moved to Galatasaray, where he played alongside Wilfried Zaha. The Ivorian has two Ligue 1 titles from his time at PSG, showcasing his pedigree.
Central defenders Joel Matip and Mats Hummels are also seeking new challenges. Matip, 33, recently ended an eight-year tenure at Liverpool, during which he won both the Premier League and the Champions League. Hummels, a 35-year-old World Cup winner with Germany, made his final appearance for Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final, closing a remarkable chapter in his career. Hummels has been strongly linked with a potential move to Roma.
Brandon Williams, a 24-year-old left-back, was released by Manchester United after spending 15 years at the club. Williams, who once scored a memorable goal against Sheffield United in 2019, is now searching for a new club after making 51 first-team appearances for the Red Devils.
Midfield and attack options still available
In midfield, Adrien Rabiot and Andre Gomes are among the most high-profile names available. Rabiot, 29, parted ways with Juventus after a four-year stint where he made over 200 appearances. The French international, who played in the 2022 World Cup final, has been linked with a move to Manchester United. Andre Gomes, 31, who previously played for Everton, Barcelona, and Valencia, is also available. Although rumors suggested a move to MLS, the Portuguese midfielder remains unattached.
On the wings, Victor Moses and Robert Skov are notable free agents. Moses, 33, departed Spartak Moscow and is well-known in the Premier League for his time at Chelsea and Liverpool, among others. Skov, 28, who was once touted as Denmark’s equivalent of Gareth Bale, is also on the market after five years in Germany with Hoffenheim.
Upfront, Anthony Martial and Memphis Depay are two forwards still searching for their next opportunity. Martial, 28, left Manchester United after scoring 90 goals in 317 appearances. Despite his experience and age, he has yet to secure a new club, though Lille has expressed interest. Meanwhile, Depay, 30, who played a crucial role for the Netherlands in their run to the Euro 2024 semi-finals, is available after an injury-affected season at Atletico Madrid. Depay’s past spells at Barcelona and Lyon highlight his potential value to a prospective club.
As the season progresses, these free agents could provide valuable reinforcements for clubs looking to strengthen their squads.
