As the 2025 summer transfer period officially commences, coinciding with the FIFA Club World Cup set to begin on June 14 in the United States, several prominent football stars are reaching the end of their current contracts this month. While some players have already secured moves to new clubs, such as Trent Alexander-Arnold reportedly joining Xabi Alonso`s Real Madrid for the Club World Cup or Jonathan Tah heading to Bayern Munich after leaving Bayer Leverkusen, others are in advanced discussions about their next steps. For instance, Luka Modric and Kevin De Bruyne are reportedly close to moves to Italy`s Serie A, with AC Milan potentially signing Modric post-tournament and Napoli nearing a deal for De Bruyne. Let`s take a look at the top five free agents available this summer:
5. Cristiano Ronaldo
The 40-year-old Portuguese icon is once again on the market following the conclusion of his contract with Al-Nassr, the Saudi club he joined in December 2022. Although negotiations for a potential contract extension with Al-Nassr are ongoing, there`s also a possibility, hinted at by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, that he could feature in the FIFA Club World Cup for a different team. As of now, an extension with Al-Nassr appears the more likely outcome, but predicting Cristiano Ronaldo`s future remains difficult until a new agreement is officially signed.
4. Edin Dzeko
Fenerbahce has confirmed the departure of the Bosnian striker at the end of the current season, making him a potentially appealing option for numerous clubs globally. Despite turning 40 next year, Dzeko proved his consistency as a goalscorer last season, netting 21 goals in 53 appearances for the Turkish club. He has reportedly been proposed to some European teams, and his name is likely to feature in transfer discussions for various clubs in the coming weeks as his contract with Fenerbahce expires on June 30.
3. Thomas Muller
The legendary German footballer is set to leave Bayern Munich after this season and is expected to participate in the FIFA Club World Cup alongside the German giants. While there have been reports of potential interest from Serie A and MLS clubs, his future destination remains uncertain as the player himself has not announced his intentions post-World Cup. Muller, who will turn 36 later this year, represents a significant chance for clubs to sign a world-class player who can still contribute significantly despite his age.
2. Thomas Partey
Even though his contract is expiring this month, discussions between Thomas Partey and Arsenal regarding a potential new deal are still ongoing. Arsenal recently appointed Andrea Berta as sport director, who previously worked with Partey during their time together at Atletico Madrid, which could influence the negotiations. Should the two parties fail to reach an agreement, Partey would become one of the most attractive free agents available in Europe this summer. Arsenal has officially stated that `ongoing discussions` are taking place concerning a new contract for the player.
1. Jonathan David
The Canadian striker is arguably the most sought-after player available this summer as the transfer window opens, with his contract at Lille set to expire at the end of June. Multiple clubs across Europe have shown interest in signing the forward, with particular attention from Italian teams. Both Napoli and Juventus are reportedly in talks with David`s representatives regarding a potential move. The Canadian striker has been prolific during his five seasons at Lille, scoring a total of 109 goals in 232 appearances across all competitions.
