Cardiff City are back in the Premier League, having finished 2nd in the EFL Championship in the 2017/18 campaign.
The Bluebirds, led by manager Neil Warnock, had a brilliant campaign in the English second tier but will need to step it up a notch if they are to remain in the top-flight at this time next year. A lot will depend on how they go about their business in the transfer window.
While the promotion will have brought in a good chunk of money into the club’s coffers, the Welsh outfit shouldn’t overlook the free agents.
There are a number of experienced players that will be out of contract with their respective clubs in a month’s time and here are three players that Cardiff should look to sign on a Bosman transfer in the summer.
Tim Krul (Brighton & Hove Albion)
The Netherlands international joined the Seagulls from Newcastle United but has hardly got a look-in into the first-team. However, given that he is just 30 years old and has loads of Premier League experience, signing him would make a lot of sense for Cardiff.
While Neil Etheridge has done a solid job between the sticks for the club, the lack of a viable backup for the Philippines stopper is something that Warnock should definitely address this summer. Krul would make for a quality addition to the ranks.
The Dutchman might have made just 5 appearances in the 2017/18 season but has been in the Premier League for over ten years, making over 150 appearances. Such experience will come in very handy for the Premier League newbies next season.
Ryan Fredericks (Fulham)
Despite Fulham earning a promotion to the Premier League, courtesy of their play-off final win over Aston Villa, right-back Ryan Fredericks could be set to leave the club for free, as his contract nears expiry.
The 25-year-old was one of the best players in his position in the second division last season, finishing with 9 assists in 44 league games.
His performances earned him a spot in both EFL Championship Team of the Year as well as the PFA Championship Team of the Year, highlighting the impact he made for the Cottagers.
A solid defender, with natural attacking instincts coupled with pace and quality end product, the Englishman ticks all the boxes needed to be a hit in the Premier League. A player of his quality, coming in on a free transfer would be a major coup for the Welsh club.
David Meyler (Unattached)
The 28-year-old might not be the most attractive proposition for the fans but having been released by Hull City a couple of weeks ago, he would prove to be a shrewd signing for Cardiff.
Despite Hull not enjoying the best of the campaigns last time out, Meyler had a decent season on a personal level, finishing with 5 goals and 2 assists in 25 appearances.
A determined and vocal presence on the field, the Republic of Ireland would bring a tough mentality to the side along with experience in the Premier League, having played over 100 top-flight games.
Throw in his ability to play in multiple positions across the pitch, Warnock will get his hands on a tried and tested player in his best years. He would certainly add a lot of value to the team.
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