It may have been a relatively slow start to the summer transfer window, with deals involving Manchester duo City and United for Rodri and Aaron Wan-Bissaka respectively being the standout signings to date, however there is still plenty of time for Premier League clubs to bring in fresh faces ahead of the new season.
Meanwhile, with a large number of clubs across Europe playing hardball when it comes to transfer fees, free agents could well become more attractive as the countdown to the closure of the window draws near. With that being said, let’s take a closer look at some of the current free agents who could well line-up for Premier League teams this season, with many being familiar faces to fans of the English game.
Yacine Brahimi
It is no secret that Crystal Palace’s Wilfried Zaha is Arsenal’s No.1 target this summer, however the Ivory Coast international is likely to be priced too high for the Gunners, who are believed to be working with a limited budget. As a result, Yacine Brahimi could well be an alternative, with the 29-year-old having recently been released by Portuguese giants FC Porto. The Algerian star has impressed for Porto during his five years at the club, meaning that it came as little surprise that
Brahimi was a target for both Everton and Newcastle over recent seasons. However, it now appears that Arsenal are the favourites to sign the tricky winger.
Hatem Ben Arfa
Ben Arfa is certainly no stranger to fans in England, with the Frenchman having previously played for Newcastle United and Hull City. Having been released by Rennes at the end of last season, the 32-year-old could well be an option for Premier League clubs looking to add creativity to their ranks. Ben Arfa may not be the easiest of players to work with, however having scored seven goals in Ligue 1 last season, he could well be worth the gamble should he be able to produce anything close to his best form.
Dani Alves
Former Barcelona defender Dani Alves announced the surprise news that he was to leave French giants PSG this summer, with his immediate future set to be decided now that the 2019 Copa America is over. Alves helped Brazil to the title this summer, with Pep Guardiola believed to be interested in bringing the 36-year-old to England for the first time. The right-back, who can also be utilised further forward, has constantly been linked with Premier League clubs throughout his career, however this could be the summer in which he finally takes the leap. For those looking to bet on Alves’ next club, be sure to check out the latest offers available at all the best football betting sites beforehand.
Mario Balotelli
Having already lost Marko Arnautovi?, Lucas and Andy Carroll this summer, it is safe to say that West Ham are in the market for at least one forward. Talks are believed to have taken place for Eintract Frankfurt’s Sebastien Haller, whilst the Hammers lost out to Valencia in the race for Celta Vigo’s Mario Gomez, however manager Manuel Pellegrini has already shown interest in Balotelli, who is available on a free following his departure from Marseille. The Italian international is undoubtedly one of the biggest personalities in the game, with the striker having demonstrated his eye for goal at clubs including Inter Milan and Manchester City in the past.
Thomas Vermaelen
Thomas Vermaelen was one of the Premier League’s best defenders during his spell in North London with Arsenal, however his move to Barcelona never really worked out. The Belgian international is now looking to resurrect his career at the top-level, with the 33-year-old potentially being a good option for Premier League managers this summer. Vermaelen made just nine appearances on loan at AS Roma last season, however the fact that he is still a regular at international level demonstrates his credentials.