The summer transfer market closed at the start of September, meaning that all clubs from Europe’s major leagues are unable to buy contracted players until the window reopens in January.
However, clubs can still sign free agents and there are a few decent players available and without a club.
Below is a selection of the best players currently without a contract.
Dani Alves, 38, Brazil:
One of the most decorated right backs in history, the marauding right back has won the most trophies by a player in history. Might not have the legs to play for a topflight team in the top 5 leagues, however, can be an able back up and an experienced presence in the dressing room.
Serge Aurier, 28, Ivory Coast
The pick of the free agents is Serge Aurier. The defender and Tottenham agreed to mutually terminate his contract at the end of August and he represents a fantastic option for any club needing a right back. However, any prospective team might have to deal with his mood swings.
Nicolas N’Koulou, 31, Cameroon
Nicolas N’Koulou was one of Serie A’s consistent defenders during his four years at Torino without being spectacular, leaving at the end of last term. He previously excelled with Marseille and is only 31. He would be a decent addition for many teams as he is experienced and has won 75 caps for Cameroon.
Clement Grenier, 30, France
The French midfielder can be a decent option for teams looking for creativity in the final third, the former Lyon playmaker has good technical ability and can spot holes in the opposition defences.
Gaston Ramirez, 30, Uruguay
Gaston Ramirez is another tricky winger who can make the difference in the top flight anywhere barring maybe England. The Uruguayan winger does not have fitness issues and is capable of beating his man and also finding spaces in the opposition defences. The former Southampton was a regular player for Sampdoria and can be a useful player for bottom teams looking for some added creativity.
Hatem Ben Arfa, 34, France
Probably the most divisive name on the list, the French winger is equally capable of brilliant moments as he is for hair tearing moments. On his day the former Newcastle and Lyon winger is a match winner. His off-field antics have meant the richly talented winger has failed to realize his potential; however, the 34-year-old can still make the difference in the topflight with his mesmeric dribbling skills.
Below are some of the prominent names that can still make a difference in the top flight.
Robbie Brady, 29, Ireland (Midfielder)
Mateo Musacchio, 31, Argentina (Centre back)
Eliaquim Mangala, 30, France (Centre back)
Sebastian Giovinco, 34, Italy (Winger)
Diego Perotti, 33, Argentina (Winger)
Jack Wilshere, 29, England (Midfielder)
Iago Falque, 31, Spain (Winger)
Giovani dos Santos, 32, Mexico (Winger)
Kevin Mirallas, 33, Belgium (Winger)
Kwadwo Asamoah, 32, Ghana (Full Back)
Marco Parolo, 36, Italy (Midfielder)
Fernando Llorente, 36, Spain (Centre Forward)
Sergio Romero, 34, Argentina (Goalkeeper)
Senad Lulic, 35, Bosnia (Full Back)
Fernando, 29, Brazil (Midfielder)
