Thanks to the Premier League’s decision last year, this summer’s transfer window actually closed on the eve of the first game week of the season, meaning teams are unable to buy in the market.
The majority of player’s contracts run until the summer and if they cannot secure a new deal, then they are left as free agents. Free agents are available to clubs to sign at any time of the season.
This is great for Premier League teams who want to avoid paying high transfer fees but is a little worrying for those players who are without a club.
In this article we have found players of real Premier League quality who for one reason or another are without a club and are wanting to secure a move as soon as possible.
Patrice Evra
The former Man Utd defender made a return to the Premier League in 2018 with West Ham but only made five league appearances. The Frenchman has had a turbulent year after he kicked a fan in Marseille and was banned by UEFA for six months.
Could he make another sensational return to the Premier League? At 37, he will surely be hoping to pick up one last big contract.
Dimitar Berbatov
We are not sure what’s more incredible, the fact that 37-year-old Dimitar Berbatov is still playing football, or the realisation that he doesn’t currently have a club.
The Bulgarian goalscorer may be beyond his best years, but surely worth taking on a free transfer? He’s certainly better than Indian side, Kerala Blasters, where he was last season.
James Collins
Collins, played for West Ham for a total of ten years for the Hammers over two spells, but was unceremoniously dumped from the club via email towards the end of last season.
The Welshman has had many injuries over his long career so you can understand why some clubs may be reluctant to offer him a contract.
Bakary Sako
Sako joined Palace in 2015, signing a three year contract and has been unable to convince boss Roy Hodgson he deserves another one, probably because of his poor scoring record.
With just 6 goals in 50 appearances, it will be hard for Malian to convince Premier League suitors he is worthy of a contract.
Robert Huth
In a way it is incredible to think that Robert Huth is only 33 years old.
The German defender has had a long a successful career in the Premier League, peaking with winning the title in 2016. He is another player on our list who could definitely offer a Premier League or Championship team something next season.
Stephen Ireland
Admit it, you had forgotten about this former Man City and Aston Villa man.
At 31, Stephen Ireland is some years off announcing his retirement, but injuries and a lack of opportunities has seen him play just 46 times in four years at Stoke. With the Potters relegated, the Irishman’s contract was not renewed.
It’s rumoured that Bolton Wanderers have taken the midfielder on a trial before the start of the season.