West Ham surprised many in the football community earlier this week as they confirmed the signing of Patrice Evra.
The experienced Frenchman was recruited for free following his release from Marseille in November, after he was pictured kicking out at a fan before one of his side’s Europa League group stage games.
This act of indiscipline didn’t deter West Ham, though, who having failed to recruit a left-sided defender in January, opted to delve into the free agent market.
Evra, like many other players, was unattached and therefore able to join any club that made an approach to sign him.
So, in light of this move, could there be any other potential additions in the free agent market that haven’t yet come to light?
Here are five unattached players, according to Transfermarkt, who West Ham should at least consider making an approach for…
Jan Kirchhoff
27-year-old Kirchhoff is still without a club following his release from Sunderland. He was plagued with injuries during his time up north but still showed signs of quality.
He is capable of playing in central defence and in holding midfield. Kirchhoff is a competent ball-winner and is not bad on the ball. He previously enjoyed spells with Bayern Munich and Schalke, and needs a club to help him rejuvenate his career.
Samir Nasri
Nasri is a controversial figure; he always has been and he probably always will be. However, something that cannot be doubted is his quite excellent natural ability as a player.
He is a free agent following his release from Antalyaspor recently and although it’d be a risk, he’d add quality and creativity to this West Ham side.
Josue
The playmaker was recently released from Turkish side Osmanlispor and is now available for a move. He has previously played for Braga and Galatasaray on loan during his four-year tenure at Porto.
Josue is 27-years-old and primarily plays in behind the striker. Although he has not hit the heights that were once expected of him, he possesses technical quality and could prove to be a useful creative option for a side in West Ham’s predicament.
Alex Song
Song was released from Rubin Kazan and despite having already had a spell at West Ham, he’d be a welcome addition at the London Stadium.
The experienced midfielder remains a technically gifted player and has a wealth of knowledge of English football following his spells with Arsenal and the Hammers. He’d be a no-risk addition and would add a different dimension to the team’s midfield.