It's possible it could still be drop links, you need the front jacked up and suspension hanging to do any accurate diagnosis.
With the front up grab the wheel top and bottom and apply force as tho to rock too and throw, do this also side to side hands 3 and 9 o clock on the wheel.
You're basically feeling for free play.
If you have any, you need to repeat this test whilst putting a hand on all the major linkages such as bottom ball joint, drop link joints, track rod end.
If there is no play in the joints other possiblities are wheel bearing, steering tie rods or drumsticks that come out of rack, or even suspension top mounts.
If the drumsticks are worn out usually you'll see the rod move up and down when rocking wheel side to side.
If the wheel bearing is at fault you'll rock the wheel and it'll feel like the wheel nuts are loose, as the wheel will move first before any suspension or steering joints.
Top mounts are a little trickier to diagnose, youll need the car flat and a finger on the centre nut of the suspension leg from under the bonnet whilst bouncing the front of the car.
Same applies, your feeling for a knock or movement under your finger.
Also, before buying any replacement parts, just make sure everything is tight, it could just be something worked itself loose due to poor fitment.
Hope this helps and good luck finding the issue.
