The summer transfer window has revealed a host of talented players currently without clubs, many of whom have made significant impacts on the World Cup stage. This lineup features athletes who not only excelled in their respective positions but also carry the potential for lucrative deals as free agents.
Goalkeeper: Vozinha, 40
Few late bloomers have left their mark on the World Cup like Vozinha, who notably thwarted Spain’s attacking efforts and limited Lionel Messi to a mere single goal during Cape Verde’s knockout stage run. After departing Chaves in Liga Portugal 2 at the conclusion of last season, Vozinha has also played in Cyprus, Slovakia, and Moldova. With 27.5 million followers on Instagram, he is not only an appealing option for social media marketers but also a capable goalkeeper with a flair for the dramatic.
Right-back: Takehiro Tomiyasu, 27
Arsenal supporters have yet to witness the full potential of defender Takehiro Tomiyasu, a player highly regarded by manager Mikel Arteta. Recently recalled to Japan’s squad after a two-year injury hiatus, Tomiyasu aims to reaffirm his defensive prowess. Having played a significant role in Japan’s last-32 match against Brazil, fans are hopeful that his knee issues are now behind him.
Centre-back: John Stones, 32
In a historical parallel, England’s legendary centre-back Bobby Moore almost entered the 1966 World Cup without an active club contract, which would have barred his participation. Unlike Moore, John Stones, who has concluded his tenure at Manchester City, faces no such restrictions. With 92 caps to his name, Stones demonstrated his defensive leadership during England’s campaign at the Azteca. It is anticipated that a Premier League club will seek his services, as he still has much to contribute after a decade of success at City.
Centre-back: Chancel Mbemba, 31
Chancel Mbemba, known for his pre-match tuxedo appearances during his time at Newcastle and for a unique controversy regarding his reported multiple birthdays, has recently parted ways with Lille after fulfilling a one-year contract. His performances for the Democratic Republic of the Congo have highlighted his skills as a centre-back and defensive leader.
Left-back: David Alaba, 34
David Alaba has been Austria’s standout player for years, adept at various roles including full-back, centre-back, and midfielder. However, he will not be part of Real Madrid’s new direction under manager José Mourinho. As a four-time Champions League victor, Alaba possesses extensive high-level experience, although injuries have somewhat limited his impact. He has expressed a desire to continue competing at the highest level and is rumored to be considering a move to Serie A.
Midfielder: Luka Modric, 40
Luka Modric’s World Cup journey came to an end when Croatia faced Portugal in the last 32, and his performance in North America did not showcase the best of a player who has graced the international scene since 2006. While a contract extension with Milan remains unsigned, securing his future is reportedly a priority for new coach Ruben Amorim.
Midfielder: Franck Kessié, 29
Having spent three seasons in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ahli, Franck Kessié, the Côte d’Ivoire captain, shone at the tournament until his team faced an early exit against Erling Haaland’s Norway in Dallas. His impressive showing has attracted interest from several Serie A clubs, including Roma, Juventus, and Atalanta, the latter being where he first played European football.
Midfielder: Leon Goretzka, 31
Leon Goretzka has parted ways with Bayern Munich after serving the club since 2018. Selected by former coach Julian Nagelsmann, he hopes that his wage demands as a free agent have not been adversely affected by Germany’s recent World Cup disappointment. His next club can expect an all-action midfielder, although they should note that Bayern seldom allow top players to leave without solid justification.
Right-side forward: James Rodríguez, 34
James Rodríguez, the breakout star of the 2014 World Cup, was released by Minnesota United after yet another brief stint in his nomadic career, which never truly reached the heights anticipated when he led Colombia to the quarter-finals over a decade ago. Similar to Neymar, he has struggled to bridge the gap to the Messi-Ronaldo echelon, but his recent performances for Colombia in the 2026 tournament indicate that he still possesses considerable talent.
Centre-forward: Bamba Dieng, 26
In a World Cup where many teams have struggled to find reliable centre-forwards, the free agency market reflects this trend. Bamba Dieng had a limited role for Senegal, only appearing as a substitute against France while the talented Nicolas Jackson took the lead. He has been linked with several Championship clubs, including Portsmouth and Derby.
Left-side forward: Mohamed Salah, 34
Lastly, the most prominent name on the list is Mohamed Salah. There were fleeting rumors of a return to Liverpool following the departure of Arne Slot, but such speculation seemed unlikely. Even more far-fetched was a suggestion on Egyptian television that he might remain in Merseyside to play for Everton. David Moyes dismissed that idea, labeling it “stay at the highest possible level” Salah’s future remains uncertain, as he focuses on leading his country to the last 16, with Saudi Arabia appearing to be the most probable destination.
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- Luka Modric
- John Stones
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