5 free agents to look out for this January

With the winter transfer window for the 2017-18 season now underway, all major clubs across Europe's top leagues are now alert to their transfer requirements.

While most teams have a clear idea regarding their transfer targets, clubs rarely want to part ways with their star players in January. Hence, we look at some free agents available in January as a short-term solution.

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#1 Bacary Sagna

The former Arsenal player, once described by Arsene Wenger as the best right-back in the Premier League, is without a club since his stint with Manchester City ended in June 2017.

At 34 years of age, he may be well past his prime, but what he can offer is experience and quality. Although his services wouldn't be needed in a top-flight club, any mid-table club across Europe with a full-back crisis can benefit from his skills.

#2 Jan Kirchhoff

Jan Kirchhoff's career has been plagued with injuries

The ex-Sunderland man who plays as a centre-back and defensive midfielder has been without a club since May. After an injury-ravaged second season at the club, the Black Cats decided not to renew his contract.

Now well recovered and only 27 years of age, Kirchhoff can wait patiently for offers to come to him, especially with his CV boasting the likes of Mainz, Bayern Munich, Schalke and most recently Sunderland. Reports in Germany have suggested that Hannover may be tempted to take a chance on signing him.

#3 Lassana Diarra

At 32, Lassana Diarra can still play competitive football before hanging up his boots

Lassana Diarra is currently a free agent after being released by UAE side Al Jazira last month. Having featured for Chelsea, Arsenal and Real Madrid before moving to Russia, Diarra is an experienced defensive midfielder with a bit of game time left in him at the age of 32.

While he garners interest from the likes of PSG and Manchester United, as seen in the recent weeks, the player promises a lot of quality and versatility.

#4 Steven Pienaar

The South African winger is known for his pace and dribbles

The South African, who most recently played for the Bidvest Wits after moving from Sunderland, became a free agent in January. Pienaar primarily plays as a winger, but can also play as an attacking midfielder. At the age of 35, he still has got one last fight in his career as a professional footballer.

Pienaar is known for his agility, dynamism and work rate. He has had past stints at Ajax, Dortmund, Tottenham, Everton and Sunderland. A favourite of David Moyes, he has linked up with the Scot at both Everton and Sunderland. A deal at West Ham might come his way, now that Moyes is in charge of the Hammers.

#5 Patrice Evra

The ex-Manchester United player remains a free agent due to recent controversies

Patrice Evra was in the headlines recently for kicking a home fan and getting his contract at Marseille terminated. Regarded as one of the best players in the world in the left-back position during his prime, Evra is a good addition to any squad in need of a veteran. His work ethic and tons of experience will help in grooming young players.

As the situation stands, it seems highly unlikely that any club would sign him, given his recent controversies. However it might be too early to call it a day, with Evra's social media exploits still making him marketable.