I don't think we can assume all free agents are bad eggs, there are players in that bucket that will get clubs in the next few weeks and do very well for those clubs. I suspect that we are looking to see if anyone can fit into our squad, but we are likely to be cautious due to the problems with Aylala (or whatever he is called) last season. However a sam clucas would be a good fit in this team, but not on our budget.
As for SE taking the hit on no new players, you have to credit him as that is a PR masterstroke. It deflects any criticism away from the owner, the board and recruitment team onto SE. He obviously thinks he has enough support from the supporters to carry that, it also allows him to say to TS remember I took the heat for you not using the transfer money and for giving us an incomplete squad. Very clever by Evans
Or Evans really thought about the only options we had who we wanted, and also wanted to come to us, weighed up the cost against the value he thought that they would bring to the squad, and let Stewart (willing to fund if Evans gae the go ahead) know that we should keep the money for the next window? Bit boring I know though.
It isn't like Evans to not get players in when given the choice, we know this from last time. We had players where the clubs agreed, but personal terms were high compared to others, according to Evans the chairman, the CFO, COO and RS all gave him the option (yes or No).
keeping it for next window is a gamble, Evans might not be here next window, if results are that bad he could be gone and we could be stuck in the bottom 3. I think it is unlikely unless we get a lot of injuries, but you never know.
I could be wrong of course, but there is fun in speculating)