Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea are among the clubs who could start scouring the free-agent market agent for bargains this January. Premier League clubs are free to start negotiations with any out-of-contract player outside of England in order to try and tempt them to sign a pre-contract agreement to join next summer. Here Express Sport looks at those who could be on the watchlist for English teams, with Lionel Messi just one of the names available.
Lionel Messi
One of the greatest footballers of all time could once again be on the move with his contract at PSG expiring at the end of the season. He will naturally catch the eye of many clubs around the world, including those in the Premier League who may just launch an ambitious bid for his signature. However, it hs been widely rumoured that the Argentina captain would like to return to Barcelona, potentially ruling out a move to England.
Milan Skriniar
Skriniar has been linked with a move to the Premier League before with Tottenham and Chelsea both credited with an interest. Given the two teams have struggled at the back in stages over the season he could yet be a player who they look to target again. However, Inter Milan have made a strong pitch to keep him at the club, offering him improved wages and the captain’s armband, something which may convince the Slovakian to stay at the San Siro.
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Thomas Lemar
Arsenal were once involved in a very public pursuit of the Frenchman while he was at Monaco and could be tempted back for the player now his contract at Atletico Madrid is expiring. He is capable of playing across the attacking midfield positions and would be a useful addition to most Premier League squads with the Gunners in particular looking like they could do with reinforcements in wide areas.
Memphis Depay
Tottenham and Arsenal were both linked with a move for Depay in the summer and they may now both be more likely to launch a fresh attempt in the coming months given he will be available for nothing. Barcelona look quite happy for the former United star to move on meaning he is likely to become an increasing topic of conversation in the coming months.
Marco Asensio
The 26-year-old has fallen out of favour in the Spanish capital and would be a good option for the likes of Newcastle, Manchester United and Arsenal. The winger has not been on top form in recent months but has proven in the past that he is capable of performing at a high-level something his new club will be looking to refind once he moves on from Real Madrid.
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Evan N’Dicka
The Mainz star is likely to be highly sought after over the next six months as one of the best left-sided centre-backs on the market. He would fit perfectly within a back three so may be a good option for Chelsea and Tottenham while Arsenal are also believed to be in the race as they seek a more reliable partner for William Saliba.
Konrad Laimer
Laimer has been linked with a move to Liverpool in the past and remains a good option for the Reds’ given their struggles in the midfield area. The Austrian is also capable of filing in at right back so could be seen as a long-term replacement for James Milner as the veteran star edges towards retirement. Given his qualities, he would also be a good option for other Premier League teams as they look to improve in 2023.
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