On 1 July, a plethora of players across the globe will officially become free agents having seen their contracts expire. Amongst those set to be released from their current club is your usual mix of washed up old journeymen, failed big signings, spare parts and those seeking a bigger pay day elsewhere.
There have been plenty of bargain Bosman buys down the years and a fair share of shockers too, so who is up for grabs in the summer of 2016? We take a look at some of the best out-of-contract players.
The obvious first name is Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who will be on the move this summer. The well-travelled Swede is reaching the latter end of his career but still has that magic spark about him. However, he is widely expected to sign for Manchester United soon, denying your club a potential bargain.
Advert
Another tidy deal could come in the form of Hatem Ben Arfa. Since leaving Newcastle, the Frenchman has re-ignited his career at Nice in his homeland and looks set to leave this summer. PSG, Sevilla and Leicester have all been linked with the former Marseille man. He is a joy to watch when on song and would be a massive coup for anyone who picks him up.
If you're looking for a versatile and reliable defender, Martín Cáceres appears to be your best bet. The former Barcelona man suffered an Achilles tendon injury last season playing for Juventus, preventing him from playing in the Copa America Centenario this year, which was won by Chile. But coming in on a free transfer, the 29-year old would be a worthwhile purchase. AC Milan's Alex, formerly of Chelsea, could also be an option.
Similarly, ex Liverpool man Alvaro Arbeloa could be worth a punt, particularly for the lower Premier League sides. At 33, his best days are behind him and he only turned out nine times for Real Madrid last season. Yet he would do a job for a mid-table Premier League side at full-back.
Advert
Arbeloa's Spanish compatriot Victor Valdes is also looking for another club having been released by Manchester United. He never really got a run in the United side and was largely restricted to playing in the reserve team. Still, he is a competent goalkeeper and will be surely be picked up by a decent side, even if he's not their number one choice. Pep Guardiola and Manchester City have been linked with a move.
Another interesting proposition in the goalkeeping department is Frenchman Steve Mandanda, most recently of Marseille. The experienced shotstopper still has years ahead of him at a relatively high level and would be a decent signing for the likes of Everton and Crystal Palace - who have both been linked.
In central midfield, Roman Neustädter would be a solid buy for any side. He represented Russia at the Euro's and is also capable of playing as a centre-back. It appears he's already found a club though, with Fenerbahce looking to close out a deal for him. Seydou Keita, previously of Roma and Barcelona, would be a smart signing if clubs are looking for an experienced player who patrols the midfield from deep.
Advert
Mathieu Flamini wasn't exactly a fan favourite in his second spell with Arsenal and was released by the club for a second time. Clearly, he wasn't up to standard for being a regular at Arsenal, however he could slot in at a lower level club. Stijn Schaars, ex PSV midfielder, is also available.
Elsewhere, promising youngster Sandro Ramirez will leave the club this summer and has plenty of potential suitors: Malaga, West Ham and Tottenham to name a few. He impressed when called upon in the Copa Del Rey last season, scoring a memorable hat-trick in a 6-1 rout at the expense of CF Villanovense, as well as scoring against Ajax in a Champions League group stage win. At 20, he's still got plenty to offer.
His namesake Gaston, who was snapped up by Southampton in 2012 for a reported £12m, is also out of work. The Uruguayan spent half of last term on loan at Middlesbrough, who he helped achieve promotion to the top flight.
If you want an experienced poacher on a free transfer, Kevin Kuranyi may be your best bet. The German striker was recently let go by Hoffenheim and could offer something for a smaller side.
Advert
Finally, Dutch defender Gregory van der Wiel could attract some interest. The 28-year old is surplus to requirements having last turned out for PSG but he still has plenty to offer. Fenerbahce reportedly held talks with him recently but his situation could change following on from Unai Emery's appointment as PSG boss.
Words by Josh Lawless
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Free transfers, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Transfers, Premier League