The winter window is a notoriously difficult time for sides to try and get transfer business concluded however with clubs often reluctant to lose players midway through the campaign.
One way clubs can avoid this, however, is by signing players on pre-contract agreements. Premier League sides are able to negotiate a pre-contract with players playing outside of the UK from January 1. This pre-contract means players would join on a free transfer once their existing contract expires in the summer.
It is 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 pre-contract in January.
13. Memphis Depay
Depay looks set to leave Barcelona after struggling to break into Xavi’s preferred side. A return to the Premier League has been mooted and at 28 years of age, the Dutchman still has plenty to offer whichever side takes a punt on him. Photo: FRANCK FIFE
14. Adrien Rabiot
Rabiot has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League with Manchester United, Spurs and Newcastle all tipped as potential destinations. His performances for France in the World Cup reminded everyone just what a talent he is in the middle of the park. Photo: Octavio Passos
15. 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
16. 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