De Gea, Lingard, Diego Costa..but what forgotten free agent stars are available?

The January transfer window offers clubs in desperate need of reinforcements the chance to pick up a bargain.

Most teams are unwilling to part with their star players midway through the season, but free agents are a great option to bolster a squad at a fraction of the price.

Manchester United are among those who could pursue the free agent market after Anthony Martial was ruled out for 10 weeks, leaving Rasmus Hojlund as their only fit recognised striker.

So, which forgotten footballing stars are lurking as free agents this transfer window and who could potentially be snapped up?

Here, Mail Sport provides a rundown of the big names who are without a club.

If clubs are looking for goals, they may also turn their heads to another free agent in Diego Costa.

The former Chelsea striker's prolific goal scoring record speaks for itself and his experience could be utilised.

After moving from Chelsea to Atletico Madrid in 2018, Costa has bounced around clubs, including a year long spell at Wolves in 2022.

After transferring to Brazilian team Botafogo, Costa is now a free agent and could be eyeing a new move.

Greek defender Konstantinos Manolas, the former AS Roma player infamous for scoring that comeback goal against Barcelona in the Champions League, is currently playing for UAE side Sharjah FC.

After spending five years at Roma, Manolas moved to Napoli for two years before a brief spell at Olympiacos.

For many clubs looking to sure up their defence this transfer window, the experienced Manolas could prove to be a good option.

Mexican star Vela, once of Arsenal, is now a free agent after playing for Los Angeles FC.

The 34-year-old attacker spent the majority of his career at Real Sociedad, where he scored 54 goals, before moving to LA.

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