Exploring High-Profile Players Who Could Be Free Agents This Summer

Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent enigmatic social media update has sparked speculation about his future with Al Nassr.

The Portuguese superstar is amongst a host of players whose contracts will expire this summer.

Considering the hefty financial commitment required to secure one of football’s all-time greats, it’s reasonable to think that only a select few clubs worldwide would be able to accommodate him—especially given his age.

While his remarkable fitness level remains impressive, there are numerous other enticing free agents available this summer that clubs may find more appealing.

Napoli might be onto something

Reports suggest that Lille’s Jonathan David has a verbal agreement with Napoli to join the Partenopei alongside Kevin De Bruyne once his contract with the Ligue 1 outfit concludes on June 30.

However, until the contracts are signed, things can change, and often do.

With 23 goals and seven assists from 42 appearances across all competitions in 2024/25, it’s clear why clubs would be keen on the striker’s talents.

Just think how a team like Arsenal could benefit from such attacking firepower.

On the Arsenal front, Jorginho has already announced his exit on social media, while fellow midfielder Thomas Partey could soon follow him out of the Emirates Stadium.

There are suggestions that Mikel Arteta might offer the Ghanaian a new contract, but similar to the situation with David, the player’s preferences will ultimately dictate the outcome.

Changes looming in north London

If negotiations stall, Arsenal might look for alternatives, with Abdoulaye Doucoure also approaching the end of his contract with Everton.

At 32 years old, he may not entirely fit Arteta’s vision for the future; nevertheless, he could be a pragmatic interim solution if needed.

Meanwhile, Tottenham’s dismal 2024/25 season—despite their Europa League success—was always going to prompt changes, and managerial alterations might be on the cards too.

Regardless of whether Ange Postecoglou remains in charge, both Ben Davies and Sergio Reguilon will see their contracts expire in June. Spurs will undoubtedly need to recruit two new defenders.

Jonathan Tah could have filled one of those spots, but the former Bayer Leverkusen defender has already been announced as a new signing for Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich.

Will Manchester United pursue a goalkeeper?

Manchester United have reportedly placed their entire squad on the transfer market, so they are likely on the lookout for bargains and free agents.

With their goalkeeping situation still unresolved, a move for Barcelona’s Wojciech Szczesny could be worth considering, especially as a short-term option.

It’s not just De Bruyne who is set to depart from United’s primary rivals this summer; his midfield teammate Ilkay Gundogan’s contract is also up, making it a key time for Pep Guardiola to initiate a squad overhaul.

One of Guardiola’s former clubs, Barcelona, seem relatively stable with only Szczesny out of contract, unlike their La Liga counterparts Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.

Changes at Real Madrid

Los Blancos legends Luka Modric and Lucas Vazquez are both on the move, although it remains unclear if their next steps will lead them to the club’s management or a new team altogether.

Atletico Madrid have not renewed Axel Witsel’s deal, while Crystal Palace are reportedly already negotiating with their left-back Reinildo Mandava, who is available on a free transfer.

Another left-back, Marcos Alonso from Celta, is also walking away from Balaidos. Given his prior experience in the Premier League, he could serve as a viable temporary option for clubs in England or elsewhere.

Major transfers on the horizon in Italy

Inter Milan will have a fresh look next season as they aim to reclaim the Scudetto from Napoli, with Marko Arnautovic, Joaquin Correa, and Stefan de Vrij all set to depart.

Atlanta is facing an even larger roster shake-up, as four key contracts are expiring: Mario Pasalic, Davide Zappacosta, Juan Cuadrado, and Rafael Toloi.

Milan’s disappointing campaign concluded without European qualification for 2024/25, complicating their efforts to attract new talent to San Siro. Among those leaving are Luka Jovic and Alessandro Florenzi, who may not see this as a setback given the team’s recent performance.

Exciting talent available this summer

Ultimately, there is a wealth of impressive talent up for grabs across Europe.

Clubs will need to trust their managers’ judgement, as bringing in older players lacking recent match experience can be risky.

However, as the saying goes, if you don’t play, you can’t win. It will be intriguing to see where these noteworthy names land in the upcoming 2025/26 season.