The new year brings about many changes. On January 1st, 2015 many footballers from all over the world will enter the last six months of their contracts, and that means that they are allowed to talk to other clubs about the possibility of a signing on a 'bosman'.
Last year the most high profile bosman signing was no doubt Robert Lewandowski joining Bayern Munich in what was perhaps the football world's worst kept secret, and Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic set sail for Inter Milan, but who are the big names that Europe's top clubs will be trying to tempt to their sides in 2015?
Here are eight top players who have entered the last six months of their current contracts and are free to discuss a move. Keep in mind that some of these players may go on to sign new deals at their clubs, but at the very least it should be a guide as to who you can sign after your first season in Football Manager.
Sami Khedira - Real Madrid
German midfield powerhouse Sami Khedira could make a push for a starting place in any team in the World. After an excellent return to action in the 2014 World Cup after an injury layoff, Khedira reminded everyone what he can do, and although he is a victim to the vanity of Real Madrid's team selection, expect numerous clubs to come sniffing around him. Bayern Munich are reportedly interested, because they clearly need help with their squad depth...
Yevhen Konoplyanka - FC Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk
Flying Ukranian winger Yevhen Konoplyanka has been a reported transfer target of Liverpool in the past, after he impressed at Euro 2012, and in particular against England in World Cup 2014 qualification. Regarded as a serious talent, it seems certain that the 25 year old will leave Ukraine this summer, but where will he end up?
Stephan Lichtsteiner - Juventus
One of the most effective right-wing-backs in the game today, and Andrea Pirlo's best buddy, Lichtsteiner would be a great signing for anyone who likes to operate a 3-5-2, or like their wide men to defend as well as attack. Chances are that he will extend his deal at Juve as he is an important part of their team, but don't be surprised if some of the bigger teams on the continent come calling.
James Milner - Manchester City
One of Manchester City's most consistent performers this season has been James Milner, who can operate in a number of different midfield positions and has been popping up with assists and important passes all season long as City attempt to chase down Chelsea at the top of the Premier League table. The England international may look to move if he doesn't feel loved, but it's hard to gauge his emotions as he only seems to have one incredibly boring facial expression. If City see sense they will extend his deal, but a few clubs might chance their arm and try to prise him away first.
Andrea Ranocchia - Inter Milan
26 year old centre-back Andrea Ranocchia is considered one of the best defenders in Italy. Despite Inter Milan's disastrous form over the last few years, Ranocchia has received praise for his performances and has been capped 17 times by Italy. Good centre-backs seem difficult to find these days, so expect interest to be high.
Dani Alves - Barcelona
It seems as though Dani Alves time rampaging down the right flank for Barcelona is coming to a close. Similar to Victor Valdes this past summer, it seems that Barca wish to move on to a player who has helped them win everything in the last few years and has been a main-stay of their teams. There will no doubt be a long queue to talk to Alves, who will surely wish to continue challenging for trophies wherever he ends up.
Nigel De Jong - AC Milan
After an excellent World Cup campaign for Holland, Nigel De Jong saw his stock rise remarkably in 2014. Having been discarded by City and playing for a struggling Milan side in Serie A, De Jong proved his worth as an enforcer in the middle and was heavily linked to both Manchester United and Arsenal. Another one who will likely have numerous offers, it seems unlikely that he would choose to stay in Milan.
Andre-Pierre Gignac - Marseille
Burly French striker Andre-Pierre Gignac, or APG as he will inevitably be known as if he comes to play in England, has been enjoying an excellent fun of form as Marseille sit on the top of the Ligue 1 table. With 12 goals in 19 appearances so far in the league, Marseille will want to keep hold of their hit-man, but a number of big clubs may be wanted to take a gamble on a striker that many thought would have left French football by this point in his career.
H/T: Transfermarkt.co.uk
