The transfer window has closed, but Manchester United could still bolster their squad by signing free agents. The club rebuilt their midfield this summer with the arrivals of Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba, yet other areas of the pitch may still need strengthening.
Because unattached players can join clubs outside transfer windows, United face no time pressure to complete such deals and would not have to pay a transfer fee. Several high-profile names are currently without clubs and could be targeted.
Left-sided defensive options
David Alaba remains without a club after leaving Real Madrid earlier this summer. At 34, he could fill a left-sided defensive void on a short-term basis and would bring title-winning experience to Old Trafford, having captained Austria at the World Cup.
Oleksandr Zinchenko, formerly of Nottingham Forest, is another potential left-back option. He is currently recovering from a long-term knee injury but would cost nothing in transfer fees and could provide emergency cover for Luke Shaw when fit again.
Attacking and defensive additions
Karim Benzema is unattached following his release from Al-Hilal. The 38-year-old striker knows where the net is, but questions remain over whether he can still perform at the highest level. His wage demands could be enormous, given the £2m-per-week salary he reportedly earned in Saudi Arabia.
Diogo Leite, who left Union Berlin earlier this year, could increase United's depth in central defence, though the club is already well stocked in that department. Dani Carvajal, another free agent, could offer valuable experience and mentor younger defenders even if he plays little.
