The summer of 2025 promises significant transfer activity as several world-class footballers approach the end of their contracts. These potential free transfers represent substantial value in the market, with clubs across Europe positioning themselves to secure elite talent without paying transfer fees. The following profiles examine five standout players who could change clubs without transfer costs, examining their current form and possible destinations as the football world anticipates a busy transfer window.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)
The 26-year-old Liverpool defender has maintained his exceptional form throughout the 2024-25 season, recording 7 assists in 39 appearances across all competitions. Alexander-Arnold‘s precise crossing and set-piece delivery remain central to Liverpool’s attacking approach, though speculation continues about his future at Anfield.
Contract negotiations have reportedly stalled since December 2024, with the defender seeking assurances about the club’s direction under their current management structure. Real Madrid have emerged as the front-runners for his signature, with PSG and Bayern Munich also monitoring his situation closely. Sources within Liverpool suggest the club remains hopeful of reaching an agreement before the season concludes, but time appears to be running short for the Merseyside club to secure their academy graduate’s long-term future.
Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
At 32, Salah continues to defy age expectations with 27 goals and 17 assists in 29 Premier League appearances this season. The Egyptian forward has maintained his physical condition impressively, still displaying the acceleration and finishing that have defined his Liverpool career.
After seven trophy-laden seasons at Anfield, Salah appears ready for a new challenge. Saudi Pro League clubs have prepared substantial financial packages, with Al-Hilal particularly determined to secure his services. However, Barcelona have also expressed interest, seeing Salah as the experienced attacking option to complement their younger forwards.
Liverpool’s attempts to negotiate a reduced-term extension have so far proved unsuccessful, with the player’s representatives indicating a preference for a longer commitment elsewhere.
Jonathan David (Lille)
Following his move to Lille from Gent in 2020, the Canadian striker has registered 23 goals in 42 appearances this season. At 25, David has developed into one of Europe’s most consistent finishers, combining intelligent movement with clinical finishing.
Arsenal’s failure to secure Jonathan David on a long-term deal now appears costly, with Manchester United, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich all expressing interest. His agent has confirmed discussions with multiple clubs, emphasising David’s desire for a project that guarantees Champions League football. Arsenal remains engaged in negotiations, but the striker appears increasingly likely to depart London after two seasons.
Leroy Sane (Bayern Munich)
The German international has delivered 11 goals and 5 assists in 36 appearances for Bayern this season, rediscovering his best form after a period disrupted by injuries. At 29, Sane combines valuable experience with pace and technical ability that continues to trouble defenses across Europe.
After five seasons in Bavaria, Sane is reportedly seeking a return to the Premier League. Manchester City have ruled out re-signing their former player, but Arsenal and Liverpool have both made contact with his representatives. Bayern’s recent managerial changes have complicated extension talks, with Sane preferring to assess all options before making a decision on his future.
Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)
Despite missing portions of the season through injury, De Bruyne has amassed 4 goals and 7 assists in 31 appearances for City. At 33, his vision and passing range remain undiminished, though questions about his physical durability have emerged. After a decade of dominance at the Etihad, De Bruyne appears ready for a new chapter.
Inter Milan have expressed serious interest, while selected MLS clubs have prepared substantial offers. City manager Pep Guardiola has publicly stated his desire to keep the Belgian, but the club’s policy on contracts for players over 30 has created an impasse in negotiations. Sources close to De Bruyne suggest he favors one final challenge in European football before considering options further afield.
