Lesser known free transfers Tottenham should pursue

Sometimes the best players can be acquired without spending a dime. Robert Lewandowski, one of the most prolific strikers in the Bundesliga if not the world, is moving to Bayern Munich in the summer on a free transfer. The Pole is evidence that quality players can be found on an expiring contract, and while the ship has sailed on the current Dortmund player joining Spurs, there are many who may be available for Spurs to pick at the end of the season. Don’t expect an Andrea Pirlo or Xabi Alonso on this list, as these types of players are likely to be scouted by many big clubs and their wages are likely to be inflated.

Guillermo Ochoa

Even if Hugo Lloris does not leave Tottenham Hotspur, Guillermo Ochoa would be an excellent acquisition. Brad Friedel is aging, and another reserve keeper who could push Lloris could be invaluable. He could easily take over the first team spot from or in place of the Frenchman. Its unlikely that the Mexican would join Spurs, as he is of such quality to guarantee a starting spot at almost any other team in the world, but if he did decide to make the switch to London, Tottenham could have the best backup in the Premier League by a long distance.

Sebastian Larsson

While Sherwood isn’t exactly light in the midfield department, Sebastian Larsson could provide something a little different. His set pieces are excellent, and with almost a decade of experience in the Premier League, Tim Sherwood (or whoever is in charge next season) could want a move for a more reliable and safe option. Why would Tottenham move for someone low-risk? So they wouldn’t take the risk of having another Erik Lamela/Roberto Soldado fiasco.

Anthony Pilkington

Another safe option, Anthony Pilkington could prove to be a good pickup. He is more of a wide player than the Swede above, and would be capable of giving Spurs a decent option off the bench. Due to the impressive form of Robert Snodgrass, and the emergence of Nathan Redmond, Norwich is not pressured into offering him another deal. He is a reliable goal scorer, and while he may be a step down in terms of quality he would represent a dependable option.

Mame Biram Diouf

While his time at Manchester United was not entirely fruitful, his time in the Bundesliga has been nothing short of a revelation. He has scored 20 goals over 2 seasons, and has contributed another 10 assists during that time. He could be a changed man, and could be a good striking option for Spurs. While Hannover may want to renew his contract, he may see a club as prestigious as Tottenham Hotspur as the next step to take in his career.

Urby Emanuelson

It’s no secret, Tottenham are light in the left-back department. If Urby Emanuelson were to join the Lilywhites, those problems could be solved. He could certainly push Danny Rose, and his versatility could make him a great utility player, filling in at more positions than just left-back.

Bafetimbi Gomis

Another solid striking option, Bafetimbi Gomis could prove to be a bargain for Spurs, and could represent a decent option. Obviously he may not be first choice, but he certainly has the quality to score goals in a Lilywhites shirt. If he is used correctly and his form improves, he could prove to be a great piece of business by the always-savvy Daniel Levy.

Igor Akinfeev

The only two goalkeepers on this list seem to be the two least realistic signings. Its unlikely that Igor Akinfeev would leave the club he has been at his entire career to sit on the bench for Spurs, but if he can be swayed (by Champions League maybe? A man can believe) he would be a brilliant second choice.

Younes Kaboul

Ok, I’m definitely stretching it here. If Tottenham extend his contract he will never officially be on a free transfer, and he would be regarded as well known by any Spurs fan reading this article. But, with only three other central defenders in the squad, Kaboul might just continue his Tottenham career. However, some poor performances (especially against Manchester City) and a recent red card incident that all but lost the game for Tottenham (against Chelsea), could sway against this decision.