As players begin to wind down their contracts, clubs around the globe can begin to prepare their offers ahead of the transfer window reopening in summer.
Newcastle United’s current good position in the Premier League means they will likely enter the summer market in a strong position and may be able to attract some of European football’s biggest names to move to St James’s Park on a free transfer.
Free transfers are a good way for clubs, like Newcastle, to navigate Financial Fair Play constraints and with the modern game seeing more and more players opting to run down their contracts in order to gain a lucrative move abroad, there are plenty of talented players available for the Magpies to sign on a free transfer when the transfer window reopens.
5. Evan Ndicka
Ndicka played a vital role in helping Eintracht Frankfurt lift the Europa League last season and his name has been mentioned as someone the Magpies may be interested in signing. At just 23 years of age, it is likely that Ndicka still hasn’t reached his potential and could be a key part of any defence for the next decade or so. Photo: Frederic Scheidemann
6. Marco Asensio
Asensio has enjoyed a wonderfully successful and trophy laden stint at Real Madrid, however, he may look to move on at the end of his current deal and opt for a new challenge elsewhere in Europe. Photo: Julian Finney
7. Youri Tielemans
The Belgian looks set to leave Leicester City this summer and will undoubtedly have plenty of suitors for his signature. Tielemans has been very good for the Foxes during his time at the King Power Stadium and will elevate any midfield he joins. Photo: Michael Regan
8. Marcus Thuram
Allan Saint-Maximin has reportedly done his best to try and convince Thuram to join the setup on Tyneside, with Eddie Howe admitting he is an admirer of the Frenchman, whilst reiterating there has been no contact between the clubs over a move. Thuram looks set to depart Germany in the summer and would add a physical presence to Newcastle’s attacking options. Photo: INA FASSBENDER