5 free agents Man Utd can now sign with Michael Carrick's transfer priority clear

A string of quality free agents are now available to Manchester United

The beginning of July marks an important moment in the football calendar as out-of-contract players officially become available. A number of high-profile names are now free agents.

Most, it has to be acknowledged, are players nearing the twilight of their careers, but that doesn't mean they should be dismissed out of hand. Manchester United have embarked on a pivotal summer as they seek to build on the momentum generated under Michael Carrick during the latter half of last season.

Having been given the role on a permanent basis, Carrick is eager to stamp his authority on the squad. With Champions League football on the horizon, he is expected to receive financial backing in the transfer market, though there are also some shrewd deals to be struck too.

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Midfield is an obvious area following Casemiro's exit and the team's broader struggles in the middle of the park in recent campaigns. Ederson is arriving from Atalanta, while other positions will be reinforced as well...

Dani Carvajal

Following more than 450 appearances and six Champions League medals, the Real Madrid legend is seeking a new club. At 34, his peak years are behind him, but the right-back's determination and professionalism remain clear.

Following confirmation of his Bernabeu exit, he said: "I'll keep playing, that's sure for me. We'll see what the best options are for me and my family, and based on that, I'll make the decision."

Dani Ceballos

The three-time Champions League winner is now available on a free transfer following his departure from Real Madrid, the club he signed for nearly a decade ago. The 29-year-old midfielder knows the Premier League well, having enjoyed two loan spells at Arsenal between 2019 and 2021, meaning he'd require minimal adaptation time.

Raphael Guerreiro

The adaptable 32-year-old, comfortable at both full-back and in midfield, has just departed Bayern Munich following a three-year stint in Bavaria.

There have been hints he might hang up his boots. Yet should he choose to continue playing, any side would gain from his wealth of experience and Champions League pedigree.

Leon Goretzka

Having secured seven Bundesliga crowns in eight campaigns with Bayern, the 31-year-old is unattached and open to offers.

Following his involvement in Germany's World Cup shambles, where they were shockingly eliminated on penalties by Paraguay, a move overseas would be understandable. With Arsenal already reportedly showing interest, might the Premier League come calling?

Dusan Vlahovic

The Serbian forward may seem like a veteran presence but is just 26 and has yet to fulfil his immense promise. He is now leaving Juventus after netting 68 goals across four-and-a-half seasons in Turin.

He enjoyed a comparable record at former club Fiorentina. A move away from Italy now awaits and he has been linked with several clubs, including Barcelona and Besiktas. Premier League sides are certain to be circling as well.