With many players’ contracts up on June 30, they are now available to find a new club without a transfer fee being paid.
Newcastle United have already spent roughly £60million on the signings of Matt Targett (£15million), Nick Pope (£10million) and Sven Botman (£35million) so far.
But the free agent market also provides plenty of interesting options to sign quality players for nothing.
While wages and agents fees must be taken into consideration, there are many players out-of-contract as of July 1 that would improve Howe’s squad.
Newcastle had hoped to sign one of the most sought after free agents this summer in Christian Eriksen but the midfielder looks likely to join Manchester United having reportedly agreed terms.
We’ve looked at free agents across Europe and picked out 19 players who may be of some interest to Newcastle due to their quality, familiarity with the Premier League or simply because they have a previous connection to the club.
The Magpies may not be interested in many of these players but they remain free agent options for the club to pursue.
But the free agent market also provides plenty of interesting options to sign quality players for nothing.
5. Jason Denayer
The former Sunderland and Manchester City defender is still only 26 and is a regular for Belgium’s national team. He is a free agent this summer following the expiration of his contract at Lyon. Photo: ROMAIN PERROCHEAU
6. Ousmane Dembele
Ousmane Dembele was linked with a move to Newcastle in January with his contract at Barcelona up this summer. The French international will have plenty of interest from across Europe should The Magpies wish to reignite their interest. Photo: Matt King
7. Jesse Lingard
Came close to signing for Newcastle in January but a move failed to materialise. Interest has recently cooled but he remains a potential option on a free. Photo: Ash Donelon
8. Djibril Sidibe
Newcastle reportedly made contact with Monaco regarding Djibril Sidibe in January. Now a free agent, the former Everton loanee could be viewed as a defensive option.