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September 6, 2024
As contracts across European football approach their expiration dates in 2025, several high-profile players are set to become free agents, and their futures remain uncertain. While names like Keylor Navas, Joel Matip, Adrien Rabiot, Anthony Martial, and Memphis Depay will be available, here are the most coveted stars likely to be on the move, excluding those with a club option for extension:
Salah, fresh off a win over Manchester United, hinted this could be his last season at Liverpool with his contract running out. Talks of renewal have yet to surface, though the club values the Egyptian star, who has racked up 214 goals and 92 assists in 352 appearances. Having already turned down a £150 million offer for him in 2023, Liverpool might consider a significant offer in January to avoid losing him for free.
Despite being 33, Van Dijk remains one of the top defenders globally. However, interest from Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr, offering to make him the highest-paid defender ever and linking him to Bayern Munich, could tempt him. The prospect of him playing under his former Manchester City teammate Vincent Kompany adds to the intrigue.
While his Liverpool teammates edge towards the twilight of their careers, Alexander-Arnold remains in his prime. The England international, who has also excelled in midfield roles, has attracted attention from Real Madrid. Despite his long-standing loyalty to Liverpool since joining the youth setup in 2004, recent friction with new manager Arne Slot raises questions about his future.
One of the world’s premier left-backs, Davies’ relationship with Bayern has soured as contract talks have stalled. His agent criticized Bayern’s contract terms, and Real Madrid is reportedly interested in signing him on a free transfer—a potentially major acquisition for the Spanish giants.
Kimmich’s role at Bayern has diminished recently, leading to tension with former boss Thomas Tuchel. Despite finding himself back at right-back, Kimmich prefers a central midfield role. Clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City, PSG, and Barcelona are monitoring his situation.
After filling the void left by Harry Kane’s departure to Bayern, Son has become Tottenham’s most influential player. However, at 32, age is catching up with the South Korean star. He has previously turned down offers from Saudi Arabia, insisting that he still has unfinished business in the Premier League.
De Bruyne remains a game-changer, contributing 103 goals and 167 assists while winning 16 trophies with City. Despite his importance, the team is evolving, and a move to Saudi Arabia could be on the horizon. De Bruyne has downplayed contract talks, suggesting his future is still
uncertain.
At 28, Sané remains one of Europe’s top wingers, boasting an impressive record of 48 goals and 50 assists in 175 games. However, fitness issues and competition from new signing Michael Olise may limit his game time, though Bayern is keen on extending his contract.
David has earned a reputation as one of Ligue 1’s top scorers, already sitting third on Lille’s all-time scoring list with 87 goals from 190 games. With interest from clubs like Chelsea, Juventus, Milan, and Real Madrid, a move could materialize next summer, particularly given his €58 million release clause.
Dumfries has been a standout performer for Inter Milan, contributing four goals and five assists last season. Talks over a new deal have stalled, and clubs like Manchester United could be interested as they continue to strengthen their defense.
Though no longer at his peak, Messi continues to deliver, scoring 25 goals and assisting 16 times in 29 games for Inter Miami. With his contract expiring, MLS may miss its biggest star, and a return to his boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys in Argentina, is a potential destination for his retirement.
At 39, Ronaldo shows no signs of slowing down. While he could be 41 by the time his contract ends, his dedication to fitness suggests he might continue for another year. A romantic return to Sporting CP is unlikely, as Ronaldo has hinted that he may retire in Saudi Arabia.
While legends like Messi and Ronaldo are near the end of their careers, Bardghji is just beginning his. The Swedish winger has impressed with 15 goals in 78 appearances and is on the radar of clubs like Manchester United, Tottenham, PSG, and Real Madrid, though he is currently sidelined with a knee injury.
These free agents represent some of the most considerable talents in world football, and their next moves could reshape the landscape of top European clubs.