West Ham United and Crystal Palace were among the most active Premier League clubs on transfer deadline day, as the winter window drew to a frantic close. With both teams facing challenges near the bottom of the table and dealing with off-pitch issues, the deadline represented a crucial last chance to bolster their squads for the season's final stretch.
Busy Deadline Day for London Clubs
Crystal Palace made headlines by breaking their transfer record to secure Jorgen Strand Larsen for £48 million. However, their pursuit of Dwight McNeil for £20 million collapsed, and a potential exit for Jean-Philippe Mateta to AC Milan fell through after the striker failed his medical. Meanwhile, West Ham United addressed defensive concerns by bringing in Axel Disasi on loan from Chelsea, providing cover during Jean-Clair Todibo's suspension. Despite these moves, both clubs might still explore the free agent market now that the regular transfer window has shut.
Available Free Agents for Premier League Sides
Free agents can be signed at any point during the season, offering clubs a valuable opportunity to add talent without transfer fees. Several high-profile players are currently unattached and could make an immediate impact in the Premier League.
Raheem Sterling: A High-Profile Option
Arguably the most notable free agent available is Raheem Sterling, recently released by Chelsea after failing to secure a move away. At 31 years old, Sterling still possesses the quality to perform at the top level. Crystal Palace have a gap in their attack following the collapse of the McNeil deal and have previously been linked with the former England winger. West Ham could also benefit from his experience and goal-scoring ability as they fight to avoid relegation, having seen a loan move for him rejected earlier. Sterling is said to prioritise staying in London, making a move to either Palace or West Ham potentially ideal, though wage agreements and competition from clubs like Tottenham could be factors.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain: A Risk Worth Taking?
Another former Premier League champion without a club, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has been training with Arsenal since his release by Besiktas. With 235 league appearances for Arsenal and Liverpool, the midfielder brings experience but has been hampered by injuries, making him a risky signing. However, on a free transfer and with a reasonable wage, the 32-year-old could be a worthwhile gamble for clubs seeking midfield depth.
Jesse Lingard: A Familiar Face for West Ham
Jesse Lingard, another former England international, is looking for a new challenge after departing FC Seoul in South Korea in December. Most recently in the Premier League with Nottingham Forest, Lingard enjoyed a successful loan spell at West Ham in January 2021, scoring nine goals in 16 appearances. Reports suggest he had the chance to return to the London Stadium before joining Forest, and at 33, a free agent move back to London could be on the cards if either club shows interest.
Kurt Zouma: Defensive Reinforcement Possibility
Kurt Zouma, an experienced former West Ham star, recently left Romanian club CFR Cluj. The 31-year-old won the Conference League with the Hammers and served as club captain in his final season. While links with Newcastle have been played down, a return to West Ham or a move to Crystal Palace could be considered, as both clubs need defensive options. Zouma's Premier League experience with Chelsea makes him a viable candidate for a comeback.
In summary, as the transfer window closes, West Ham United and Crystal Palace have the opportunity to strengthen their squads through the free agent market. Players like Raheem Sterling, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Jesse Lingard, and Kurt Zouma offer potential solutions to their ongoing challenges, providing depth and experience without the need for transfer fees.
