From Cristiano Ronaldo to Mo Salah, including former PSG players Neymar and Marco Verratti, numerous football stars are set to become free agents in a few months, offering exciting opportunities in the transfer market.
As we begin 2025, several footballing giants are in the final months of their contracts, allowing them to sign freely with the club of their choice for the upcoming summer. Expect plenty of movement in the transfer window in the coming days. Here’s an update on some of the biggest names.
The Top 3
Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr, 39 years old) continues to perform, having scored 8 goals in his last 5 matches. His contract is expiring, and he may consider a return to Europe after appearing set to finish his career in Saudi Arabia. His goal? The 2026 World Cup with Portugal.
Mohamed Salah
Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) is in top form with 20 goals and 17 assists this season, but his future remains uncertain despite rumors of a contract extension. Liverpool seems hesitant to rush into negotiations, which has frustrated the Egyptian. PSG is keeping an eye on the situation.
Neymar
Neymar (Al-Hilal, 32 years old) is expected to be a free agent in July 2025 after a season plagued by injuries, with uncertainty surrounding his contract renewal. The player is reportedly close to signing with Inter Miami to reunite with Lionel Messi and former Barcelona teammates.
The Good Deals
Kevin De Bruyne
Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City, 33 years old), often injured and less influential, could end his career in MLS, with rumors linking him to San Diego. A departure from City seems increasingly likely.
Joshua Kimmich
Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich, 29 years old) has yet to extend his contract with the club, fueling speculation about a potential transfer. PSG and Barcelona are particularly interested, but Real Madrid could also surprise everyone.
Virgil van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool, 33 years old) is in talks for a contract extension, but the situation remains unclear. It seems likely that he will remain in the same position for now.
Players Already Signed by Real Madrid?
Alphonso Davies
Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich) is out of contract and could join Real Madrid, who are reportedly very interested.
Trent Alexander-Arnold
Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool) is courted by Real Madrid, who have offered him a contract until 2030. The deal seems to be finalized, with Real Madrid even attempting to sign him this winter. However, Liverpool has shut the door on the move.
The Aging Stars
Marco Verratti
Marco Verratti (Al-Arabi, formerly PSG) could leave his Qatari club for Inter Milan after a season in Saudi Arabia. A return to PSG is, of course, impossible.
Paulo Dybala
Paulo Dybala (AS Roma, 31 years old) could leave his club for free, with rumors linking him to Galatasaray, although he is still performing well this season. PSG is also reportedly interested, as they often are whenever he is available on a free transfer.
