As of Tuesday, July 1, a host of high-profile footballers across Europe have officially entered free agency, with their contracts expiring on June 30. This development presents an opportunity for clubs in the Premier League and across the continent to bolster their squads without paying transfer fees.
The ability for players to move freely at the end of their contracts stems from the landmark Bosman ruling of 1995. The decision paved the way for major free transfers, including Sol Campbell’s switch from Tottenham to Arsenal in 2001 and Michael Ballack’s move from Bayern Munich to Chelsea in 2006.
This summer, another group of seasoned professionals and former stars are up for grabs. According to a Premier League report, these include:
Dominic Calvert-Lewin
The 28-year-old striker departs Everton after nearly 10 years, during which he scored 71 goals in 273 appearances. Despite recent injury setbacks, the 2020/21 campaign, where he netted 21 times, remains a career highlight.
Thomas Partey
The 32-year-old Ghanaian midfielder leaves Arsenal after making 130 league appearances and scoring nine goals. Injuries limited his consistency, but he showed flashes of brilliance, including a long-range strike against Nottingham Forest last season.
Thomas Müller
After 755 appearances and 250 goals for Bayern Munich, the 35-year-old German legend is exploring new opportunities. Mostly used off the bench under Vincent Kompany, Müller may seek a fresh challenge.
Nelson Semedo
The 31-year-old Portuguese full-back and Wolves captain is now a free agent after 182 appearances in all competitions, noted for his reliability and leadership.
Jonathan David
At 25, the Canadian striker is one of the most coveted free agents this summer. After scoring 16 Ligue 1 goals for Lille last season and seven in the UEFA Champions League, his tally of 109 career goals makes him a prime target.
Jamie Vardy
The 38-year-old Leicester City legend, with over 200 goals for the club, is ready for what could be his final challenge after a remarkable rise from non-league football to Premier League champion.
Mario Pašalić
The Croatian midfielder, 30, leaves Atalanta after seven seasons. A former Chelsea player who never featured for the Blues, Pašalić is now free to decide his next move.
Christian Eriksen
The 33-year-old Danish playmaker exits Manchester United, having helped them to FA Cup and EFL Cup triumphs. He is reportedly attracting interest from Rangers, Ajax, and others.
Victor Lindelöf
The Swedish centre-back ends an eight-year stint at Manchester United. At 30, his experience could be an asset for clubs seeking defensive reinforcements.
Abdoulaye Doucouré
The 31-year-old midfielder departs Everton after playing a key role in their survival battles, including scoring the decisive goal that kept them in the Premier League in 2023.
Other notable names now available include Olivier Boscagli (PSV), Mason Holgate (Everton), Stefan de Vrij (Inter Milan), Danny Ings (West Ham), Willian (Fulham), Ashley Young (Everton), Ben Mee (Brentford), Lukasz Fabianski (West Ham), Neal Maupay (Everton), and Sergio Reguilón (Tottenham).
With the 2025/26 season on the horizon, the availability of these players—many still with much to offer—could spark an active window of free signings in the weeks ahead.
