FIFA 17: 10 Best Free Agents You Need To Sign
7. Jorge Valdivia (79)
Jorge Valdivia is the very definition of a stopgap. He’s a mercurial 32 year old CAM who moves like a glacier (54 sprint speed), can’t tackle, struggles for strength, and comes packaged with that oh-so-unfortunate Injury Prone trait. Valdivia’s best years are likely already behind him, and it won’t be long before his remaining stats start sliding down the pan.
Why sign him, then?
Five-star skill moves.
For all his flaws, Valdivia remains an incredibly gifted player. The skill moves are the jewel in his crown, but he is an excellent all-round playmaker despite his advancing years. High ball control (87) and dribbling (82) stats make Valdivia a master technician, and his short passing (82) and vision (84) makes him highly effective at dictating play behind the strikers.
His low stamina (52) means he’ll struggle over 90 minutes, but for a lower/mid-level side struggling for flair, he’s a great option. You’ll likely want to phase him out after the first season, but rotating him with a younger player (who can act as his long-term replacement) will serve your side well. In terms of pure technique, Valdivia is the best free agent on the market, and someone who can contribute to your side right away.