Although the summer transfer window has officially closed across Europe, clubs globally still have the opportunity to bolster their squads by signing free agents. Several prominent names, including former World Cup winners and decorated Premier League stars, currently find themselves without a club and are free to negotiate terms immediately.
Paul Pogba’s career remains at a crossroads at age 33. After serving an 18-month doping suspension that concluded in March 2025, the Frenchman struggled with injuries, limiting his impact since returning. His tenure at Monaco, where he signed a two-year contract from Juventus last summer, ended prematurely last month after he made only six appearances for the club.
Karim Benzema is also navigating a period of uncertainty. The 38-year-old former Ballon d’Or winner saw his contract with Al-Hilal terminated this past Monday, just six months into his deal. Benzema had previously spent three seasons with Al Ittihad following his departure from Real Madrid in 2023. With new arrivals like Ollie Watkins pushing him down the pecking order at Al-Hilal, the striker is reportedly considering options within the Saudi Pro League or a potential move to Major League Soccer.
The situation for 26-year-old Jadon Sancho is equally complex. Once considered one of Europe’s brightest prospects, his career has stalled since his 73 million pound ($97m) move from Borussia Dortmund to Manchester United in 2021. Following loan spells at Aston Villa and Chelsea, he has been released by United. Given his age and talent, he remains an attractive prospect for many clubs, provided he is willing to adjust his wage expectations.
Raheem Sterling, 31, is also searching for a new path after a career that included stints at Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Arsenal. His most recent spell at Feyenoord was short-lived, with the Dutch side releasing him after only three months and eight appearances. Meanwhile, 35-year-old Riyad Mahrez is available after being released by Al Ahli. Despite his recent participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup for Algeria and a record of 37 goals in 122 appearances for the Saudi club, his future remains open.
Several other veterans are currently exploring their next steps. Philippe Coutinho, 34, remains a creative option in midfield. After leaving his boyhood club Vasco de Gama in February, he has taken a break from the sport, though he continues to be linked with a potential move to the MLS. The Brazilian previously starred for Liverpool before his high-profile move to Barcelona.
Real Madrid’s departure list also includes two seasoned defenders. Dani Carvajal, 34, is looking for a new challenge after concluding a 13-year tenure with the Spanish giants. David Alaba, also 34, has parted ways with the club this summer. Reports suggest a potential move to Manchester United, where his experience could provide necessary cover for the left side of their defense—a position the club failed to strengthen during the recent transfer window. The report also notes that but a number of well known players could still make major moves, the transfer window in Europe may have shut for the summer. The report also notes that takes a look at who could still be snapped up – and for free. The report also notes that the rise and fall of Paul Pogba will forever be one of the great frustrations of his fans and the clubs he played for. The report also notes that but the 2018 World Cup winner with France played only six games for the French club, the Frenchman joined Monaco on a two-year deal from Juventus last summer. The report also notes that once regarded as one of English and European football’s brightest talents, Jadon Sancho’s demise is hard to fathom. The report also notes that given his undoubted talent and tender age, but he will have to take a cut from the significant wages that he would have earned at United, clubs the world over will be interested in the winger.
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