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.
9. Isco
The Spanish attacking midfielder will leave Real Madrid this summer after seeing his opportunities limited. The 30-year-old has played over 350 times for Los Blancos, winning five Champions League medals along the way. | Getty Images
10. Alessio Romagnoli
The AC Milan captain will be one of the most sought after defenders in the free agent market this summer with Chelsea keen to make a move. His departure is part of the reason why Milan are so keen to sign Newcastle target Sven Botman. | Getty Images
11. Florian Grillitsch
The Austrian international will leave Hoffenheim this summer. Capable of playing in midfield or defence, the 26-year-old could prove to be a bargain for the Magpies but has attracted interest from other Premier League sides. | Getty Images
12. Juan Mata
The attacking midfielder is open to joining another Premier League club following the expiration of his contract at Manchester United this summer. Photo: Catherine Ivill