Bosman deals have never been so appealing: best Premier League players becoming free agents in 2018
With transfer fees becoming more and more extortionate as every transfer window passes, the ability to find true ‘value’ in the market is becoming a tougher job for clubs of all stature.
Sol Campbell, James Milner, and most recently Zlatan Ibrahimović have shown just how much value can be found in the right deal. With this in mind, we look some of the best players available for nothing come the end of the 2017/18 season:
Juan Mata
The 29-year-old was brought to Manchester United by former manager David Moyes in what was one of the Scot's only long-term positive effects at the club.
Whilst at United, the Spaniard hasn’t managed to hold down a consistent position, playing on the left, right and centre in an attacking three behind the striker.
But in his ever-changing role Mata has still managed to consistently contribute, scoring 36 goals and recording 26 assists in four seasons.
And having won the World Cup, European Championship, Champions League, FA Cup, and Europa League in his career, Mata would be an asset to almost every trophy-hunting team on the planet.
Good fits: Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund
Michel Vorm
Vorm moved to Swansea City in 2011, coinciding with their maiden promotion to the Premier League.
And while he conceded 127 goals at the Welsh side, there is no doubt his 31 clean sheets kept the Swans in the big time in those vital early years in the top flight.
Three successful seasons at the club saw Vorm earn a move to Tottenham Hotspur in 2014, where he has acted as understudy to Spurs’ number one, Hugo Lloris.
When called upon the Dutchman has been a more than reliable number two but to put it honestly, he is wasted on the bench, and you would expect at least half of the Premier League’s clubs to be interested in the Netherlands international’s services as their new number one.
Good fits: Watford, Crystal Palace
Emre Can
For most people, Emre Can will be known only for his rather spectacular goal of the season overhead kick against Watford in the 2016/17 season.
But the German is much more than that, becoming one of Jurgen Klopp’s most trusted midfield men, starting most games over club captain Jordan Henderson.
His good form is fleeting, coming in waves, but there is enough there for plenty of Europe’s largest clubs to consider his services.
Rumours that Can has rejected a new deal with the Reds have been rife for months, with Juventus lined up to secure his services as soon as possible. Whatever Can does, he will be a solid player for whoever he plays for, with his best years yet to come.
Best fits: Juventus, Arsenal
Luke Shaw
You have to feel sorry for Luke Shaw. His start to life at Manchester United couldn’t have gone much better, handling the pressure and performing well on a consistent basis.
But a double leg fracture against Ajax in the Champions League threw his career at Old Trafford into total disarray. Since recovering from the injury, Luke has struggled with both general fitness and form on a far too regular basis.
His talent is obvious and a change of scenery may be best suited for the former Southampton man but whether he or United are ready to call time on their relationship is yet unknown..
Best fits: Tottenham Hotspur, Everton
