Clubs looking at these 12 free agents still on the market with the 2024 transfer window over
The 2024 summer transfer window in Europe is done and dusted. As always, the three-month period was a tense as well as exciting state for the supporters. Premier League giant, Chelsea was the biggest spender in the transfer market with an estimated expenditure of €261 million. The two heavyweights of Spanish football, Real Madrid and FC Barcelona were relatively quiet as per their usual standards.
The deadline day was a stressful one for the likes of Victor Osimhen who failed to move away from Napoli. Whilst, Jadon Sancho and Raheem Sterling were able to move on in their careers. The official deals between clubs in Europe can not be made until at least January now. However, that does not prevent free agents to continue negotiating with interested sides. Here is a brief look at some of the renowned players currently without a club and listed on the market as free agents.
Also Read: Best Deadline Day Transfers 2024: Every Confirmed Summer Transfer Across Major Leagues
Memphis Depay
The Dutch international had a poor 2023/24 season with Atletico Madrid, scoring just nine goals in 31 appearances. Consequently, Diego Simeone was not eager to prolong Depay’s stay at the Metropolitano. The 30-year-old also endured a horrific European Championship which did not help his case in the transfer market. Nonetheless, Depay’s positional flexibility makes him one of the most lucrative free options in the world.
Dele Alli
Dele Alli’s last stint as a professional footballer was an underwhelming loan spell at Besiktas. His parent club, Everton has decided against renewing his contract but has allowed him to train at the club’s facilities. The former Spurs man’s future at Goodison Park is dependent on him proving his fitness to Sean Dyche who is reportedly not impressed so far with the English midfielder.
Sergio Ramos
Perhaps the biggest name on this list is Sergio Ramos. The veteran was linked to some top European clubs throughout the summer but MLS side San Diego FC and Saudi Arabian side, Al Nassr were the two favourites to capture the signature of the 38-year-old. Ramos, though, ended up joining neither of the two teams and will now have an important decision to make regarding his career.
Mats Hummels
One of the biggest talking points of last season was the redemption of Mats Hummels. The German former World Cup winner was instrumental in guiding Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final in London. Despite that, he left the club days after the final and is still a free agent. Mallorca, Roma, and Real Sociedad are reportedly in the running to sign Hummels on a free transfer.
Adrien Rabiot
Disputes over salary and contract terms proved to be the end of Adrien Rabiot’s five-year journey at Juventus. Rabiot’s profile ensures that he will be a solid backup midfielder for a plethora of top clubs around Europe. Liverpool and Manchester United attempted to secure his signing but were put off by his unrealistic financial demands. Mid-table clubs will also be keeping an eye on Adrien Rabiot’s situation as a luxury transfer.
Anthony Martial
Inconsistencies have been the biggest hurdle in Anthony Martial‘s career. Manchester United finally decided to part ways with the former Golden Boy winner this summer. Unfortunately, his name has been a rare presence amidst the summer transfer rumours. Currently, it is an open race for the clubs interested in the French winger to get him as a free agent.
Joel Matip
Liverpool confirmed the departure of Joel Matip along with Thiago in May. Since then, Matip has struggled to attract potential suitors. His recent chronic injury woes have prevented him from enjoying regular game time. Matip’s fitness issues coupled with his age have drawn away clubs so far but that is not to discard the Liverpool legend as one to watch in the free-agent market.
Andre Gomes
Andre Gomes was once considered one of the top young talents in the world. The Portuguese midfielder has not been able to live up to the expectations and was most recently a backup at Everton. The Merseyside club decided against giving him a new contract. Major League Soccer in the United States seems the most likely option for Gomes.
Willian
Willian confirmed his departure from Fulham in August. The exit confirmed his status as a free agent but until now the Brazilian has not been able to find a new home in his career. Willian has been reportedly in contact with MLS and Saudi Arabian clubs. A move back to his native country is also not ruled out.
Mario Hermoso
Atletico Madrid and Mario Hermoso enjoyed a fine time together during the 2023/24 season. The club’s decision to let him leave for free was a surprising call. Hermoso was on Inter Milan’s wishlist but the move never materialized. Currently, Galatasaray in Turkey has emerged as the favourite to sign Mario Hermoso.
Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting
Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting’s journey as a professional footballer is an inspiring one for the whole football world. The striker has enjoyed a remarkable run from the likes of second-division club, Stoke City to a regular starter at Bayern Munich. It will be no surprise to witness several clubs enter the race to sign the reliable and affordable number nine.
Brandon Williams
After the breakthrough to the Manchester United senior team in 2019, Brandon Williams was loaned out to Norwich City and Ipswich Town. The left-back, though, failed to impress the new owners at United and was allowed to leave on a free transfer. Numerous sides from the lower divisions of English football will try their hand at luring Williams in the coming months.