[Player and agent extremely interested in joining but will only enter into negotiation if I make a transfer offer that’s accepted, despite him being available on a free due to contract expiry]

A player is interested in joining me according to the agent, news reports when I declare interest (say he is desperate to join) and if I make a transfer offer which is accepted he will enter negotiations. However, he is also available on a free but when I go to enter negotiations his agent says he’s not interested. Other AI clubs can enter pre contract negotiations with him

[Multiple Suggestions]

1) Board Interaction

Deeper involvement in suggestions for stadium/facilities development and how they should be developed. Eg: minor improvements, complete overhaul, willing to sacrifice majority of budgets towards development. 

2) Agents

Use of agents to sell players or improve DoF use to move on players under the radar. Eg: Instruction to sound out potential suitors over a longer period, with details of your expected fee for the player so this is done over a longer period, without upsetting the player and not as forceful as offering the player out currently. Making it more widely known when you’d consider offers for players

3) players

more detailed involvement with players as to your plan for their development, role within the squad, future with the club, contractual issues. Not as black and white as listed/not needed. Although this can still be used. Build closer relationships with greater feedback to and from players  

Involvement with agents of players from other clubs as to their interest in a move, interest over other clubs, use their stance to assist in negotiations with their club or add pressure to their own club 

4) Media

More detailed media barrage to further specific agendas instead of one off questions in a press conference. Have the option to try and create media narratives yourself over various subjects: transfers, completions, your own future, other managers

5) Staff

More multi disciplinary meetings between staff. Eg: End of season reviews, pre-season review, transfer strategy - involvement of many different strands of staff: board for finance, coaching and DoF for squad balance/weakness/strengths, scouting for recommendations and agree on strategy. 

6) Transfers

Longer and more drawn out negotiations with media tactics and power plays, drawn out contract negotiations with greater feedback over negotiations between players and clubs. More open but less formal discussions between clubs around potential targets. It seems a bit black and white at the minute - offer £20m. Rejected. Offer £22m. Rejected. Whereas we are aware clubs discuss the possibility of a transfer a year in advance (Real Madrid and Hazard). Also the involvement of a player. Tell the player you are interested and will look to sign him next summer, if they want the move too then they can inform the club they won’t renew or want to go but start less aggressive then proceeding to formal transfer request if it doesn’t get moving. Just more immersive negotiation and involvement from multiple threads.