The best out-of-contract full-backs available for free this summer, with Leeds, Newcastle and Nottingham Forest stars featured.
Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez speaks to Newcastle United’s Vurnon Anita after he is sent off
Sky Bet Championship clubs are starting to release their retained lists ahead of the summer, meaning there could be a number of decent players available for free.
Although not all 24 sides have made public who they will be giving new contracts to, here are three full-backs that look almost certain to be looking for a new club ahead of 2017/18.
Vurnon Anita, Newcastle United
Arriving at St James’ Park five years ago from Ajax, Anita is one of the Magpies’ longest serving players, but the Chronicle reports that Rafael Benitez has decided the 27-year-old is not cut out for their Premier League return.
Not that it means the Netherlands international, who started life as a central midfielder before converting to right-back, would not be a useful option for Championship clubs after playing 27 league games in Newcastle’s successful promotion campaign.
Eric Lichaj of Nottingham Forest (R) and Darren Bent of Derby County in action
Eric Lichaj, Nottingham Forest
A popular figure at the City Ground, Lichaj has played 162 games for Forest since joining from Aston Villa in 2013 and was a regular in the starting XI once again this season.
However, the Nottingham Post reports that manager Mark Warburton is eyeing up James Tavernier at right-back, meaning the 28-year-old will be an experienced free transfer available this summer.
Leeds United’s Charlie Taylor
Charlie Taylor, Leeds United
The controversy surrounding Taylor’s departure has been well documented, with Leeds boss Garry Monk revealing after their final game of the campaign that the left-back refused to play.
It therefore seems his time at Elland Road has come to an end and according to the Birmingham Mail, West Bromwich Albion are readying a move for the 23-year-old.
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