Walsall release Florent Cuvelier and Simeon Jackson with Erhun Oztumer also set to depart
Walsall have published their released and retained list as manager Dean Keates starts what is expected to be a busy summer at the Banks's Stadium.
The Saddlers boss held meetings with his players on Tuesday and Wednesday to make clear his plans for the 2018/19 campaign.
Florent Cuvelier, Simeon Jackson, Reece Flanagan, Milan Butterfield and Will Shorrock have all been given free transfers.
The Express & Star understands Keates will also listen to offers for some players who remain under contract next year.
Walsall have also confirmed they remain open to negotiation if star man Erhun Oztumer wants to remain at the Banks’s Stadium.
However, the 26-year-old has expressed an desire to explore other options this summer.
In terms of players retained, vice-skipper Joe Edwards – who is likely to be injured until November – has been offered a new deal.
The club has also exercised a years-option on the contract of striker Amadou Bakayoko.
Academy player Dylan Parker has also been offered a one-year professional contract.
A statement released by Walsall said: In line with Football League Regulation 65 – Re-engagement of Players, Walsall Football Club can today announce the following in respect of Out of Contract Players:
“Joe Edwards has been offered a new contract whilst the Club have taken up the one-year option to extend the contract of Amadou Bakayoko.
Academy Player Dylan Parker has been offered a First Year Professional Contract.
“Each Player has until 10th June 2018 to either accept or decline the offer made, after which time the offer lapses.
“Flo Cuvelier, Simeon Jackson, Reece Flanagan, Will Shorrock and Milan Butterfield have all been given free transfers and have therefore been released.
“The Club would like to place on record our thanks to these players for all of their efforts and contribution during their time with the Club and we wish them well in the future.
“The Club have made numerous attempts to extend the contract of Erhun Oztumer over the last 12 months.
“However, Erhun’s representatives have expressed a desire to explore alternative options and while the Club remain open to negotiation, we respect that position.
“All other Players remain on contract beyond 30th June 2018.”
Boss Dean Keates added: "It’s been a difficult few days but it comes with the job," Keates said.
"There are some conversations you have to have that are easy and others that are uneasy.
"It has gone how I expected. It’s football and football clubs change and move on."
