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.
13. Houssem Aouar
Aouar was one of Europe’s hottest prospects not too long ago, but has stayed at Lyon in France despite great interest from the Premier League and beyond. Injury problems have plagued his start to the season and a move away from the Ligue 1 side may be what the Frenchman needs to reinvigorate his career. Photo: JEAN-PHILIPPE KSIAZEK
14. Lionel Messi
Messi’s contract at PSG expires in the summer, meaning if any clubs do want to secure his signature, they can start that process in January, although there is an option to extend his stay in Paris. Messi has been heavily-linked with a move to the MLS. Photo: Dan Mullan
15. Naby Keita
Keita could leave Liverpool as a free agent this summer. Keita has spent five seasons at Liverpool since joining from RB Leipzig. Photo: GLYN KIRK