Nottingham Forest could use the free transfer market to improve their squad this summer as they prepare for their Premier League return.
A host of players who played in the top flight last season are now free agents after the expiry of their contracts at the end of June.
Forest kick-off their 2022/23 season away at Newcastle United and Steve Cooper has already started his transfer business in preparation. Taiwo Awoniyi became the Reds' club-record transfer last month.
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Manchester United goalkeeper Dean Henderson is expected to be the next new face through the door at the City Ground, and the Reds can now sign any fresh free agents as of today. NottinghamshireLive looks at five decent free transfers:
Ben Mee
After 11 years at Burnley, defender Ben Mee said his goodbyes this summer on the back of their relegation to the Championship.
The former Manchester City man made over 200 top flight appearances and still has a few more years in him in the Premier League at 32. His defensive solidity has been clear for all to see whilst at Turf Moor.
Cyrus Christie
The former Reds defender is now a free agent after exiting Fulham following their promotion last season. Christie spent the 2020/21 season at the City Ground on loan, making 44 appearances and scoring five goals in the process.
After spending the second half of last season on loan at Swansea City, the 29-year-old has ruled out a move back to South Wales and has been previously linked with a return to Forest, with Watford and Turkish sides Konyaspor and Fenerbahce also linked.
Cheikhou Kouyate
Boasting eight years of Premier League experience, Senegal international Kouyate made 288 appearances during his time with West Ham United and Crystal Palace and offers versatility as a centre-back and midfielder.
Failure to agree a new deal at Selhurst Park means the experienced player is now free to sign and could add the Premier League experience in the middle of the park for Forest next season.
Charly Musonda
Belgian winger Musonda has left Chelsea this summer after 10 years at the club, making only seven appearances. He spent most of his time at Stamford Bridge on loan at Real Betis, Celtic and Vitesse and the former Belgium under-21 international is now a free agent.
Still only 25, Musonda has a point to prove in the Premier League after struggling for the Blues. The right-footed winger can play as an attacker midfielder or on either wing and could provide competition to Brennan Johnson next season.
Fabian Delph
A long-shot on this list, but Delph's quality shouldn't go unnoticed if the opportunity arises. Still only 32, the former Everton and Manchester City man is as versatile as it gets.
With over 200 Premier League appearances to his name, Delph still has enough in his engine to go again for a new club in the top flight, but his injury record may be a concern.
He's predominately a central midfielder, but can play in the holding position as well as a left-back.
Would you take any of these at Forest? Have your say in the comments below
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