TEN 'FREEBIES' CITY COULD SIGN THIS SUMMER?

Ten Football League players Neil Warnock could sign for absolutely nothing this summer
By Iestyn Samuel


Saturday 1st July 2017


The Football League recently released their ‘retained’ list containing hundreds of potential players all available for absolutely nothing, so could any one of these 10 players tempt Neil Warnock to make a move?



Libor Kozak

In the current climate we are often reminded that top Championship strikers supposedly cost multi-million pounds. Kozak cost Aston Villa approximately £6 million pounds, but the 6’4 target man suffered frequent injury misfortune throughout his time at Villa Park.

Capped 8 times by the Czech Republic, Kozak demonstrated his talent specifically during Lazio’s 2012-13 Europa League campaign, netting an impressive 8 goals. Still only 28, a short term contract similar to the one Marouane Chamakh received from the club may be viable, and this would allow Warnock to closely assess Kozak first, without offering long, expensive contracts which have plagued the club in recent years.


Vegard Forren

Brighton and Hove Albion’s successful charge to the Premier League barred 33 capped Norweigan Forren from making a single appearance for the Sussex club. Forren has been frequently praised by his former Molde boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, and has been recently linked with Aston Villa, however the potential lure of first team football could tempt Forren to join the Bluebirds.


Vurnon Anita

Having risen through the illustrious Ajax youth academy, Anita made the move to Newcastle United in 2012. The 3 times capped Dutchman completed 27 appearances for Rafa Benitez’s men this season, but was deemed to surplus to requirements as the Magpies returned to the Premier League. Anita is a versatile player who can play at full-back alongside his preferred defensive midfield role, and his versatility could certainly tempt Warnock to make a move for the Dutchman.


Sebastien Bassong

Sebastien Bassong is no stranger to a promotion push having starred for Norwich City since 2012. Bassong is an accomplished central defender on his day, however he is prone to making darting forward runs, which can prove costly. His situation sounds remarkably similar to Sol Bamba’s, who has flourished under the guidance of Neil Warnock. However, Bassong’s wage demands may prove to be a stumbling point.


Youssouf Mulumbu

Another recognisable name on this list is former West Bromwich Albion midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu. The 30 year-old offers a highly physical midfield presence and would provide Premier League experience in a relatively young Cardiff side. The midfielder was Part of Norwich City’s summer clearout alongside Bassong.


John Ruddy

Neil Warnock has made no secret of his desire to bring a stable goalkeeper to the Welsh Capital in time for pre-season. A clear option would be English goalkeeper John Ruddy.

His seven year stint at the Canaries came to an end this summer, where he was consistently linked with Premier League sides. A promise of first team football at second tier level may sway his decision rather than warming Premier League benches.


Jose Semedo

The veteran Portuguese midfielder was let go by play-off outfit Sheffield Wednesday. His off field contributions and leadership skills were highly praised by manager Carlos Carvalhal and team-mate Fernando Forestieri earlier this year. Warnock is a fan of characters in the dressing room and a one year deal may suit both parties.


Jay Spearing

A Name which will be familiar with City fans having been linked with a move to South Wales in the past. The 28 year-old featured prominently in Bolton’s return to the Championship this year, but Trotters chairman Ken Andersen indicated earlier in the season that high earners would be let go regardless of the club’s position. Spearing is reportedly in negotiations to stay at the Macron Stadium, therefore a substantial contract offer may be required to prise the former Liverpool man away from the Trotters.


Yaser Kasim

Perhaps a surprising name on the list due to Swindon Town’s relegation to the fourth tier of English Football. Kasim is an Iraqi international who possesses exquisite technique and a fantastic passing game. An unfortunate cruciate ligament injury harmed the midfielder’s development, and Consequently Kasim will look to forget his past year and kick-start his career at Championship level or above, with Severnside rivals Bristol City also interested in the player’s services, and have reportedly tabled an offer for the 26 year-old.


Graham Carey

The last name on this list is from League Two, and he is certainly a worthy one. In fact, Carey is the player on this list which could well fill Peter Whittingham’s heavy boots. Carey’s wand of a left foot was an integral part of Plymouth Argyle’s League Two winning side, with 10 goals from midfield.

The similarities continue with the Irishman excelling out wide yet capable of performing in the middle of the park. Neighbours Newport County know too well of his abilities having conceded four goals to Carey this season alone. Plymouth are battling to re-sign their fan favourite, but an offer from the Bluebirds would surely be too good to refuse.

Can pretty much count John Ruddy out but I like the idea of Graham Carey (as in the in the article)

I'd be surprised if he hasn't spoke to some of these as I think none will have any trouble finding a club.

Carey put pen to paper with argyle a few days ago!

Kasim would be a quality signing. I also think Anita on a free would be fantastic business as well, due to him being able to play in a number of positions. I've got a slight inkling that one of the midfielders we could be in for is Alejandro Faurlin, as Warnock loves him, I read an article somewhere a few months ago about Warnock and he said that Faurlin was the best player that he had ever worked with. I also feel that Lewis McGugan could be a great signing on a free, cause he can play in a number of positions, he's a creative player who scores goals and makes assists, plus he is a good set piece taker. A back four of Paterson, Manga, Bamba & Bennett with a midfield 3 of Gunnarsson, Faurlin/Anita/Kasim & McGugan, supplying a front 3 of Zohore, Ward and another pacey new forward would be fantastic in my opinion. We would also have a much stronger bench to choose from as well.

Bloooooobirds.

Pretty poor list tbh, Anita about the only one is take above what we all ready have

Charlie Adam and George Boyd are both available. Either or both would be better than any of these!

Pretty poor list tbh, Anita about the only one is take above what we all ready have

Glad I'm not the only one who thought that - doesn't scream intent to me

If we could get him in on decent wages then Anita would be a very useful signing.

I wouldn't mind looking at Louis Thompson at Norwich - had a few head turning games last season and thought fairly highly of but been out since Dec/Jan with Achillies injury - born in Dover but Welsh qualified too plays centre mid - at 21 he's the ideal age to give the opportunities to show what he can do