Football transfer: Top stars available for free across Europe

As of Tuesday, July 1, a wave of high-profile footballers have officially become free agents, with their contracts expiring on June 30.

This development opens the door for Premier League and European clubs to sign experienced talent without paying a transfer fee.

The rule allowing free movement after a contract expires has been in effect since the landmark “Bosman ruling” of 1995, which has since enabled major transfers like Sol Campbell’s move from Tottenham Hotspur to Arsenal in 2001 and Michael Ballack’s switch from Bayern Munich to Chelsea in 2006.

A Premier League report on Tuesday noted that this summer, a fresh batch of seasoned professionals, including current and former Premier League stars, are now available for signing. Among the most notable names are:

Dominic Calvert-Lewin

The 28-year-old striker leaves Everton after nearly a decade, during which he scored 71 goals in 273 appearances. His peak came in the 2020/21 season, when he netted 21 goals. Despite a dip in recent years due to injuries, Calvert-Lewin remains a proven forward.

Thomas Partey

Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey exits Arsenal after 130 Premier League appearances and nine goals. A key figure under Mikel Arteta, the 32-year-old battled injuries but returned to form last season, highlighted by a long-range goal against Nottingham Forest.

Thomas Müller
After a legendary 755 matches and 250 goals for Bayern Munich, 35-year-old Müller is stepping into free agency. Limited to mainly substitute appearances under Vincent Kompany, the German forward may be eyeing a new chapter away from Bavaria.

Nelson Semedo
Wolves captain Nelson Semedo, 31, has also become available. Known for his consistency and leadership, the Portuguese full-back played 182 matches in all competitions for the club.

Jonathan David
The Canadian striker is on the radar of several top clubs after netting 16 goals for Lille in Ligue 1 and seven more in the UEFA Champions League. At just 25, David’s 109 career goals make him one of the most attractive options in this summer’s free market.

Jamie Vardy

Leicester City icon Jamie Vardy, 38, is seeking a final challenge after scoring over 200 goals for the Foxes. His journey from non-league football to Premier League glory remains one of the game’s most remarkable stories.

Mario Pasalic

The 30-year-old Croatia midfielder ends a seven-year stay at Atalanta. Previously contracted to Chelsea without a single appearance, Pasalic is now free to choose his next destination.

Christian Eriksen

Danish midfielder Christian Eriksen is leaving Manchester United, having contributed to their FA Cup and EFL Cup wins. At 33, he is attracting interest from clubs like Rangers and Ajax.

Victor Lindelof
The Swedish defender departs Old Trafford after eight seasons. A Premier League mainstay, the 30-year-old offers experience and defensive solidity.

Abdoulaye Doucoure
Another Everton departure, Doucoure, 31, proved vital during the club’s relegation battles, notably scoring the goal that secured their Premier League status in 2023.

Other notable free agents include Olivier Boscagli (PSV), Mason Holgate (Everton), Stefan de Vrij (Inter), Danny Ings (West Ham), Willian (Fulham), Ashley Young (Everton), Ben Mee (Brentford), Lukasz Fabianski (West Ham), Neal Maupay (Everton), and Sergio Reguilon (Tottenham Hotspur).

With clubs looking to strengthen their squads ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, the availability of these players—some with top-level experience and others still in their prime—could prompt a busy window of free transfers in the weeks to come.