The Premier League's summer transfer window closed with a flurry of activity, as clubs collectively spent more than £500million on Deadline Day alone. Yet despite the frantic business conducted across the division, a handful of clubs left gaps in their squads unaddressed, leaving the door open for free agents to potentially fill the void as the season progresses.
Manchester United and Bournemouth were notably quiet, failing to complete any incoming transfers before Tuesday's deadline. Arsenal, meanwhile, showed interest in bolstering their attacking options, with reports linking the champions to Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez, but no deal materialized before the window shut.
With several established names still searching for new clubs, attention has turned to which unattached players could offer value to Premier League sides in need of reinforcements.
Karim Benzema remains among the most eye-catching options. The 38-year-old Frenchman, who has scored over 350 career goals, has long been linked with a move to Arsenal. While his best years are likely behind him, his experience and finishing ability could still make him a useful short-term addition for a club chasing silverware.
Chelsea's transfer activity on deadline day was notable for departures rather than arrivals, with the club losing Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City in a British record-equalling £125million transaction. An attempt to bring in Lamine Camara from Monaco collapsed late in proceedings, leaving a potential void in midfield. Paul Pogba, now a free agent following his release from Monaco, could be an option worth considering. At 33, the World Cup winner still has the profile to contribute in the middle of the park should he find the right project.
Liverpool's defensive frailties have been a talking point, and Dani Carvajal's availability presents an intriguing possibility. The former Real Madrid full-back, who has made over 350 appearances across his career, could provide experienced cover at right-back. His compatriot Andoni Iraola, Liverpool's manager, may well have familiarity with the player that could smooth any potential transition.
Manchester United's decision not to sign a left-back despite thin depth in that area raised eyebrows among supporters. Oleksandr Zinchenko, released by Arsenal, is available on a free transfer and could serve as competition for Luke Shaw while also offering flexibility to operate in midfield if required.
Tottenham strengthened their backline by signing Tosin Adarabioyo from Chelsea, filling the space left by Kevin Danso's departure to Sunderland, though they also lost midfielder Pape Matar Sarr to Juventus. Given Spurs' defensive struggles so far this campaign, David Alaba's versatility across multiple defensive positions could make him an attractive free-agent target.
Everton's attacking depth looks stretched following the sale of Iliman Ndiaye and Beto's move to Fiorentina, despite bringing Jack Grealish back to Merseyside on loan from Manchester City. Jadon Sancho, who remains without a club after his spells at Manchester United and Chelsea, could represent an ideal fit given his ability to operate across the front line.
While the transfer window has officially closed for permanent signings, these free agents remain available and could provide timely reinforcements for clubs willing to move quickly outside the conventional market.
Based on reporting from Standard Sport.