The Blues boss told The News that targets have already been discussed as he looks to make the most of players’ availability following the expiry of their contracts.
At present, 224 players within League One are due to be available for nothing once their current deals expire next June.
And Cowley admitted he wants to be well posed to swoop if those of interest to him become available.
But with so many poised to join the free-agent ranks, where does he start?
To help him, we’ve identified 24 League One players in the final year of the contracts who could do a job for the Blues.
17. Cohen Bramall (Lincoln City)
The 25-year-old featured for Arsenal in Premier League 2 and also appeared for Birmingham and Colchester. The left-back arrived at Lincoln last January on an 18 month deal from the U's and has impressed under Michael Appleton. Bramall has started the season strong and has appeared in 13 games for the Imps. Picture: Joe Portlock/Getty Images Photo: Joe Portlock
18. Michael Smith (Rotherham United)
The former Blues forward had a mixed time during his spell at Fratton Park. After a successful loan spell in 2016, Smith was bought from Swindon but was loaned out the following January after failing to impress. After his departure in 2017, the striker rekindled his goal scoring abilities at Rotherham where he impressed over multiple seasons in the Championship. Picture: George Wood/Getty Images Photo: George Wood
19. Charlie Lakin (Burton Albion)
The 22-year-old was signed on deadline day by the Brewers and has impressed so far this season. Although Lakin was sent off in his third game for the club, the central midfielder has been a regular feature at the Pirelli and has quickly impressed fans with his performances. Picture: Alex Davidson/Getty Images Photo: Alex Davidson
20. Callum Camps (Fleetwood Town)
The midfielder came through Rochdale’s academy and played 240 times for Dale before moving to Fleetwood in 2020. The 25-year-old has been impressive during his time at Highbury with a stellar first season which saw him net nine times in 42 games. This season he has continued his fine form after being involved in five goals in eight League One games so far. Picture: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images Photo: Clive Brunskill