Aston Villa are on the cusp of securing Champions League football for next season after a 41-year hiatus from Europe’s elite competition.
The prospect of Champions League football will undoubtedly garner great excitement from the Villa Park faithful, who still have fond memories of their triumph back in 1982. However, with European football, under the new format, comes the challenge of playing eight group stage games whilst remaining competitive in the Premier League.
Unai Emery will be keen to avoid a similar injury crisis to the one which has derailed Newcastle’s season and will therefore need to be as active as possible in the market to remain competitive on all fronts.
Squad depth is paramount next term and Villa are already planning a surprise swoop for out-of-contract Leicester City striker Kelechi Iheanacho, according to reports.
As the summer window approaches, we take a look at all 76 top-flight players who are set to become free agents and who Emery could look to sign.
1. Andy Lonergan
Position: Goalkeeper. Current club: Everton. | Getty Images
2. Scott Carson
Position: Goalkeeper. Current club: Manchester City. | Getty Images
3. Elliot Thorpe
Position: Midfield. Current club: Luton Town | Getty Images
4. Wayne Hennessey
Position: Goalkeeper. Current club: Nottingham Forest. | Getty Images