Second tier clubs released a host of players at the conclusion of last season with a number of those still without a club as teams return for pre-season.
For some clubs, free agents can prove an attractive proposition as it takes away negations with another club and focuses only on agreeing terms with a player.
We have scoured the market to see the best free agent defenders available who have been released by second-tier clubs.
Every available player has then been ranked by their market value, according to transfermarkt.co.uk data.
1. Ben Mee
The player has left Burnley after 11 years and is reportedly being eyed by a host of Premier League clubs. Market value: £2.25m. Photo: Alex Livesey
2. Nicolas Nkoulou
The player made three league appearances for Watford after joining in October 2021. Market value: £2.25m. Photo: Richard Heathcote
3. Tommy Smith
The ex-Huddersfield Town player was released by Stoke City. Market value: £1.62m. Photo: Jan Kruger
4. Naby Sarr
The Frenchman was one of several players released by Huddersfield at the conclusion of the campaign. Market value: £1.35m. Photo: Gareth Copley