Top 5: Free Agents Still on the Market

With the transfer window having closed just over a week ago, the opportunity for Newcastle to add fresh faces from other clubs was promptly ended. Fortunately, the squad has remained largely unscathed, with all key players intact.

However, many have been quick to point out that the squad may not be complete, especially with our attacking options down to the bare bone if injuries are attained. With that in mind, it makes sense to look at the array of unattached players available on a free. And here are potentially some of the best.

5. Thomas Hitzlsperger

Admittedly, we seem pretty sound in the central midfield department. However, many of them are young and lack experience, meaning that we’d be short of attacking impetus if Cabaye were unavailable. Hitzlsperger has performed with Aston Villa and West Ham, making him no stranger to the English game. Nicknamed Der Hammer for his powerful left foot shot from long range, the German would offer an eye for a pass which the attackers could feed on.

4. Eidur Gudjohnsen

It doesn’t take much to know that the Iceland international’s best days are long gone. But perhaps the ex Chelsea man would prove useful by making a few cameos from the bench. Besides, the club have signed worst strikers in the past (Shefki Kuqi, anyone?)

3. Tim Borowski

Another free agent who would be a worthy back up to Yohan Cabaye. The German international was a fantastic player at his prime, providing an unusual combination of strong tackling and attacking play. Having spent the whole of his career in his native land, I wonder whether he’d consider applying his trade in a foreign league. For me, he could prove to be a sensible acquisition.

2. Nicolas Anelka

Football Manager’s description of Anelka as “nomadic” is certainly an accurate one. Having played for ten different clubs and at one point being the most expensive player of all time, the Frenchman certainly isn’t afraid of starting a new chapter in life. And with his current club, Shanghai Shenhua, risking financial difficulty if the owners pull the plug, the 33 year old could be flung into the market. Despite his age, Anelka is a very talented footballer who would add versatility. Worth a look in if he does become available on a free.

1. Didier Drogba

Why not? The Ivorian has stated that the only Premier League club he was and would be happy to play for is Chelsea, but perhaps this could turn into one of those common situations in which a footballer breaks his loyalties. There’s not much I really have to say about this man, because we all know just how good he is on his day. If released by Shanghai Shenhua, I’m sure he’d still be capable of destroying Premier League defences at 34.