2025 free agent frenzy: Who are the top players up for grabs this summer?

Big contracts can define an entire club’s short-term future. There’s always tension when a star approaches the end of a deal. In 2025, several high-profile players, including three million dollar megastars from Premier League leaders Liverpool, could walk away for free if negotiations stall.

Teams pursuing them wouldn’t pay a transfer fee, but they’d likely part with a hefty signing bonus. Below, we spotlight ten of the most sought-after talents set to run down their contracts next summer.

Two notables, Alphonso Davies and Heung-Min Son, were recently removed from the list as they nailed down contract extensions. Conversely, should Neymar, technically available this summer after fulfilling his 6-month Santos stint, be added? You tell us.

Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)

Liverpool’s homegrown right-back is valued at around $78 million. At 26, he’s known for his pinpoint crosses and the creative spark he brings from defense. Real Madrid has emerged as a rumored destination, yet Liverpool hasn’t given up hope. Supporters wait to see if their academy graduate will commit to another chapter at Anfield or embark on a new journey in Spain.

Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

Salah, valued at $57.2 million, has been a consistent scoring force. He’s already etched his name into Liverpool history with a long list of records, but his future isn’t exactly clear. Reports swirl about possible interest from Saudi clubs. Still, the door remains open for a renewal that could keep the leading 2025 Ballon d’Or candidate in England for several more seasons.

Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich)

Kimmich, worth around $52 million, is one of the most versatile players in the sport. He can dictate play from midfield or slot in seamlessly at right-back. There’s talk of Arsenal, Barcelona, and Manchester City hovering. Bayern fans have long believed he’d follow in the footsteps of other one-club legends, but the final call is still pending.

Leroy Sané (Bayern Munich)

Sané, also a Bayern standout, commands a value of $46.8 million. The winger has flickered between moments of brilliance and occasional inconsistency. Some reports indicate that formal negotiations may only pick up in the spring. If the two parties don’t come together soon, Premier League teams, among others, will consider a move.

Jonathan David (Lille)

David, the 24-year-old striker valued at $46.8 million, has been a prolific scorer in Ligue 1. He’s rumored to be on the radar of clubs like Manchester City, especially if they’re looking for a reliable supporting striker. Lille has a real challenge on its hands to keep one of Canada’s brightest talents beyond 2025.

Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)

De Bruyne, at 33, still holds an impressive $36.4 million valuation. Injuries have slowed him recently, but his creativity remains unmatched when he’s fit. While he’s been a cornerstone in City’s success, whispers of an eventual move abroad—perhaps to Major League Soccer—keep the story interesting.

Jonathan Tah (Bayer Leverkusen)

Tah, worth $31.2 million, has been solid in the Bundesliga. Powerful in the air and calm on the ball, he’s been linked to some of the biggest names in Europe, including Barcelona. Bayer Leverkusen has been reluctant to part with him in the past, but if no extension is signed, more rumors will surface in the next few months.

Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)

Van Dijk is listed at $29 million but plays like a player worth far more. Now 33, the Dutch defender remains central to Liverpool’s backline. Real Madrid is sometimes mentioned as a possible suitor, though Liverpool may not let him go without a fight. Talks of a new deal have reportedly started.

Frank Anguissa (Napoli)

Anguissa, 29, is at $27 million. He’s admired for his high work rate and physical style in central midfield. Napoli could renew him quickly, especially given his importance to the team, but there are suggestions that internal dynamics at the club might affect contract discussions.

Olivier Boscagli (PSV Eindhoven)

Boscagli, also valued at $27 million, offers a left-footed option who’s comfortable at center-back or left-back. At 27, he’s entering a key stage in his career. Brighton was said to be interested in him before, and Inter might be laying the groundwork for a move. PSV must act soon if they want to keep him.