As the summer transfer window approaches, a number of talented players find themselves without contracts, creating an intriguing opportunity for clubs looking for bargains. Among them are former stars who have made significant contributions on the world stage. This lineup showcases some of the most notable free agents available following the World Cup.
Goalkeeper: Vozinha, 40
Few late bloomers have made as significant an impact on the World Cup as Vozinha, who first thwarted Spain’s offensive efforts and later limited Lionel Messi to just one goal after Cape Verde advanced to the knockout stage. The goalkeeper left Chaves in Liga Portugal 2 at the end of last season, having previously played in Cyprus, Slovakia, and Moldova. With a massive 27.5 million followers on Instagram, he presents both a marketing asset and a skilled goalkeeper ready for high-pressure situations.
Right-back: Takehiro Tomiyasu, 27
Arsenal supporters have yet to witness the full potential of Tomiyasu, a defender admired by Mikel Arteta. His unexpected return to Japan’s national squad, following a two-year injury hiatus, allows him to showcase his abilities once more. Versatile in defense, he played every minute of Japan’s loss to Brazil in the last 32. Fans are hopeful that his knee issues are now behind him.
Centre-back: John Stones, 32
John Stones, often regarded as England’s finest centre-back, is free to participate in this tournament after concluding his tenure at Manchester City. Unlike Bobby Moore, who risked entering the 1966 World Cup without a club, Stones is now at 92 caps and demonstrated his defensive leadership when he came off the bench at the Azteca. With a decade of success at City, he is a prime target for Premier League clubs seeking his experience.
Centre-back: Chancel Mbemba, 31
Once known for his pre-match tuxedo appearances as a Newcastle player, Mbemba has now left Lille after fulfilling a one-year contract. The captain of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has proven his worth as a centre-back and defensive organizer during his international displays, showcasing his adaptability and skills.
Left-back: David Alaba, 34
Alaba has long been a key figure for Austria, adept at playing various positions including full-back, centre-back, and midfield. However, he will not be part of the Real Madrid overhaul under José Mourinho. Despite injuries limiting his impact at Madrid, Alaba has expressed a desire to maintain a high level of play, with a potential move to Serie A being discussed.
Midfielder: Luka Modric, 40
Modric’s departure from the World Cup came after Croatia’s defeat to Portugal in the last 32, denying North America the chance to see the best of a player who has graced the international arena since 2006. While a contract extension at AC Milan remains unsigned, it is reportedly a priority for new coach Ruben Amorim.
Midfielder: Franck Kessié, 29
Having gained experience over three seasons with Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, the Côte d’Ivoire captain shone until his country faced a tough exit in Dallas after reaching the knockout stage for the first time. His performance has drawn interest from several Serie A clubs, including Roma, Juventus, and Atalanta, the latter being his first European footballing experience.
Midfielder: Leon Goretzka, 31
After leaving Bayern Munich, where he had been a fixture since 2018, Goretzka looks for a new challenge. Selected by Julian Nagelsmann, his former coach at FC Hollywood, he hopes that his status as a free agent will not hinder his wage demands following Germany’s recent World Cup disappointment. His next club will benefit from his all-action playing style, but they should be cautious, as Bayern rarely part with top players without valid reasons.
Right-side forward: James Rodríguez, 34
Rodríguez, who became a breakout star during the 2014 finals, was recently released by Minnesota United, marking another chapter in a nomadic career that has yet to match the heights expected after leading Colombia to the quarter-finals twelve years ago. Like Neymar, he remains unable to bridge the gap to the Messi-Ronaldo echelon, but his performances for Colombia in 2026 reveal that he still possesses significant untapped talent.
Centre-forward: Bamba Dieng, 26
The struggle to find competent centre-forwards has been mirrored in the free agency market, with Dieng playing a limited role for Senegal during the tournament, appearing only as a substitute against France. He has been linked with various Championship clubs, including Portsmouth and Derby, as clubs look to bolster their attacking options.
Left-side forward: Mohamed Salah, 34
The most prominent name on this list is Salah, who had been the subject of wild speculation regarding a return to Liverpool following the departure of Arne Slot, although such a move never materialized. Even more outrageous were claims on Egyptian television suggesting he could remain on Merseyside by joining Everton, a notion that David Moyes described as “stay at the highest possible level” Salah’s future remains uncertain, as he focuses on leading his national team to the last 16, with Saudi Arabia emerging as the most likely destination for his next chapter.
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