Who are the best free agents available this summer?
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We look at four potential bargains
This summer’s transfer window could look a little different to recent years, as clubs have to be much more mindful of their financial situation.
The pandemic could affect transfer budgets across the world, which means many sides could be looking to make a canny free signing.
There’s likely to be no shortage of suitors for talented players who won’t command a transfer fee, and we’ve scouted four of the best free transfers on the market.
David Silva
After 10 years at Manchester City, David Silva is calling a close to his time at the Etihad this summer. The World Cup winner has lit up the Premier League during his time in sky blue, playing an essential part in winning four league titles and two FA Cups.
He’s arguably one of the most gifted attacking midfielders the league has ever seen. The 34-year-old has started to slow down, but his class is still clear to see. In a less demanding league, or with a carefully managed schedule, he’d still be able to run games.
Silva will hope to say goodbye to City with a long-awaited Champions League title – Pep Guardiola’s team are 3/1 second favourites.
Willian
Willian has signed a short-term deal to help Chelsea in their push for fourth, but the Brazil international is set to move on when the campaign ends.
The 31-year-old will likely want a hefty wage for what could be the last big contract of his career, but you’d imagine his proven quality, ability to play on either flank and workrate will attract plenty of interest.
He’s served the Blues very well, but Frank Lampard is starting to look to the future now, with Christian Pulisic becoming an increasingly important player. Willian’s experience could still have a key role to play though – Chelsea are 1/4 to seal a top-four spot and 4/1 to win the FA Cup.
Edinson Cavani
If any team needs a cutting edge in attack, Edinson Cavani could be the man to deliver. Only Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Robert Lewandowski can better his tally of 216 league goals over the last 10 years.
He left Paris Saint-Germain as the top goalscorer in the team’s history with 200 goals in 301 appearances for the Ligue 1 champions.
The 33-year-old lost his place to Mauro Icardi this season, but he remains a real threat in the final third – he directly contributed to seven goals in just 732 minutes of league and Champions League football.
Ryan Fraser
Ryan Fraser’s season has already ended after he turned down Bournemouth’s offer of a short-term extension. The Cherries are 4/9 to go down without him.
It had been a disappointing campaign for the winger. After getting 14 assists in 2018/19 – second only to Eden Hazard (15) in the top flight – as well as scoring seven goals, he couldn’t match those performances. He scored just one and created four goals in 28 league appearances this season.
Maybe transfer speculation distracted him, maybe the side’s poor form affected his own performances – whatever the reason, he could be a very smart addition if he can get back to his best.
Who do you think the best free transfer would be? Cast your vote in our Twitter poll.
Who is the best free agent available this summer?
— Coral (@Coral) July 1, 2020
All odds and markets correct as of date of publication
