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The January transfer window is currently open, and unlike most seasons, teams in the Premier League have been cautions this time because of the implications of COVID-19.
We might see an odd deal or two towards the end of the window, but it would be a surprise if teams spend big in January.
There are some players whose contracts are coming to an end at the end of the season, and they are likely to be in high demand. With that, let’s take a look at:
Top 5 players from the Premier League who will be free agents at the end of the season:
#1 Georginio Wijnaldum - Liverpool
Liverpool have tried and failed in their attempts to tie Georginio Wijnaldum to a new deal so far, and it looks increasingly likely that he will leave as a free agent next summer.
Any talk of a move to Barcelona on a pre-contract agreement is unlikely to happen now that the presidential election has been postponed to March. It is, however, likely that Barcelona will have an advantage in their attempt to sign him as a free agent.
Wijnaldum reportedly wishes to emulate the Dutch legends of yore and move to Camp Nou after a successful spell at Liverpool. The Dutchman has won the Champions League, Premier League, and the Club World Cup in his near five-year stay with Liverpool so far.
#2 Sergio Aguero - Manchester City
Sergio Aguero is one of the best forwards the Premier League has ever seen, but the Argentine international is now in the twilight of his career.
The Manchester City forward’s contract expires at the end of the season, and doubts have risen on whether the club will offer him a longer deal considering his recent injury history.
Aguero missed a lot of playing time in 2020, 21 games to be precise, and in that time, manager Pep Guardiola has found a way for the club to progress without El Kun.
Still only 32, Aguero has a year or two left in the Premier League or the top level, but he needs to be used carefully to avoid injuries. It could just be a bad phase with injuries, but his age coupled with high wages will make it difficult for anyone to offer him a long-term deal.
If Manchester City decide against offering him a new deal, he will be one of the most decorated free agents out there in the summer.
#3 Edinson Cavani - Manchester United
Manchester United signed Edinson Cavani for free last summer, but the Uruguayan was offered only a one-year contract because of his age and injury history in recent seasons.
Since signing the contract, Cavani has impressed for Manchester United and has scored three times in ten Premier League games, and has fit in well.
Cavani has admitted that he would like to stay beyond this summer, but it remains to be seen if Manchester United will offer him a new deal.
The South American has taken the pressure off of Anthony Martial’s shoulders, and offers something different with his all-round style.
#4 Ryan Bertrand - Southampton
Ryan Bertrand has admitted that he wants a long-term contract with Southampton, so the ball is in the Saints’ court right now.
Bertrand has been one of the most consistent players for Southampton since joining them in 2015, and is often one of the first names on the teamsheet.
Bertrand has played in all but one game for Southampton this season, but he is 31, so it remains to be seen if the Saints will offer him a long-term deal.
The former Chelsea full-back has made more than 200 appearances for Southampton. If he does become a free agent come the summer, he is likely to be in demand as there will be several Premier League clubs queing up to sign him.
#5 Demarai Gray - Leicester City
Demarai Gray rejected a new contract by Leicester City, and it is almost certain that he will be a free agent in the summer. Manager Brendan Rodgers has barely used Gray this season, as the 24-year old has made just two appearances in all competitions so far; one in the Premier League, and one in the EFL Cup.
The writing was on the wall when Gray was omitted from the Europa League squad by Rodgers, and he has made more appearances for the under-23 side than the senior team.
Still only 24, Gray has a lot of football left in him, and there’s no doubt that he will be eyed up by several clubs in the summer.
The winger is known for his quick feet and ability to take on players in the attacking third, but he is yet to take his game to the next level.
