Football Manager 2023: How to sign pre-contract players

Football Manager 2023 is just around the corner, with brand new features announced for this year's game.

With that in mind, we want to help you bolster your squad in the cheapest way possible, and pre-contract signings are the very best way to achieve just that.

Check below for everything you need to know about how you can sign players for free in FM23.

FM22 Pre-contract players

Pre-contract players are defined as any player over the age of 23 who is coming to the end of their contract.

Whether it's Kylian Mbappe or Phil Jones, these players will be available for you to approach at the start of the year in which their contract expires.

FM22-Mbappe-Contract
expand image
FRESH CHALLENGE - FM22 allows you to identify players that are exploring their options

For instance, Cristiano Ronaldo's contract expires in July 2023, meaning he can freely negotiate with other clubs as soon as 1 January 2023 arrives.

How to sign pre-contract players

Of course, if you're managing Morecambe, you aren't going to be securing Ronaldo's signature, but the same applies to all players irrespective of rating/profile.

When January arrives, locate the player you wish to sign on a pre-contract and hover over the 'contract' section of their profile.

FM22-Mbappe-pre-contract
expand image
COME GET ME - Pre-contract players will be available to sign from January 1

If you've done your research correctly, an 'approach to sign' option should appear in this dropdown, allowing you to enter into contract talks with the player.

Simply click the option and do your best to bring in a bargain superstar.