As the summer 2025 transfer window aligns with the FIFA Club World Cup, which begins June 14th in the United States, several prominent footballers are set to become free agents. While some have already finalized moves, such as Trent Alexander-Arnold heading to Xabi Alonso`s Real Madrid and Jonathan Tah joining Bayern Munich from Bayer Leverkusen after his contract ends, others are reportedly in advanced negotiations to join Italian Serie A clubs. AC Milan is said to be ready to sign Luka Modric post-tournament, and Napoli is expected to secure Kevin De Bruyne. Here`s a look at the top five players whose current contracts are expiring this summer:
5. Cristiano Ronaldo
The 40-year-old Portuguese superstar is potentially available on the market again following the expiration of his contract with Al-Nassr, the club he signed for in December 2022. Although discussions for a new deal with the Saudi team are reportedly ongoing, there`s also a possibility he could play for a different club at the FIFA Club World Cup, as recently suggested by FIFA president Gianni Infantino. As of now, an extension with Al-Nassr appears the more likely outcome, but with a player of Cristiano Ronaldo`s profile, his future remains uncertain until a new contract is officially signed.
4. Edin Dzeko
The Bosnian striker has officially left Fenerbahce at the end of the current season and could emerge as an interesting option for various clubs globally. Despite approaching his 40th birthday next year, Dzeko proved his reliability as a goalscorer, netting 21 goals in 53 appearances for the Turkish club last season. He has reportedly been offered to several European teams, and his name is likely to be linked with multiple clubs in the coming weeks before his contract with Fenerbahce expires on June 30th.
3. Thomas Muller
The legendary German attacker is set to depart Bayern Munich at the end of the current campaign, although he will still feature for the German giants in the FIFA Club World Cup. While there have been reports of potential interest from Serie A and MLS clubs, his future plans remain unclear, as Muller himself has not publicly announced his intentions after the World Cup. Muller, who turns 36 later this year, represents a significant opportunity for clubs to sign a world-class player who can still make a considerable contribution to the game despite his age.
2. Thomas Partey
Although his contract is due to expire later this month, negotiations between Thomas Partey and Arsenal for a new deal are reportedly still underway. Notably, Arsenal recently appointed Andrea Berta as their sport director, who previously worked with Partey during their shared time at Atletico Madrid. Should the two parties fail to reach an agreement, Partey could become one of the most attractive free agents available in Europe this summer. Arsenal has officially confirmed that `ongoing discussions` regarding the player`s contract are taking place.
1. Jonathan David
The Canadian international forward is perhaps the most highly sought-after player available as a free agent this summer, with his contract at Lille set to expire at the end of June. Numerous teams across Europe have shown interest in signing the striker, with Italian clubs being particularly active; both Napoli and Juventus are reportedly engaged in talks with David`s representatives. Over his five seasons with Lille, David has accumulated an impressive goal tally, scoring 109 goals in 232 appearances across all competitions.
Dominic Ashworth