Ex Real Madrid and Manchester United stars Karim Benzema, Paul Pogba and Jadon Sancho, among other high‑profile free agents, could still be signed this month.
The European summer transfer window has shut, but a number of well‑known unattached players remain in the market. Even though the next window does not open until January, clubs around the world can still sign players without contracts.
Paul Pogba – ex‑Manchester United and Juventus
The rise and fall of Paul Pogba remains one of the great disappointments for his fans and the clubs he played for. The 33‑year‑old served an 18‑month doping ban that ended in March 2025, and injuries have limited his appearances since. His most recent contract with Monaco was terminated last month after a two‑year spell that saw him play only six games.
Karim Benzema – ex‑Real Madrid
A fellow World Cup winner and former Ballon d’Or recipient, Karim Benzema is also hunting for a new club. The 38‑year‑old’s contract with Saudi Pro League side Al‑Hilal was terminated on Monday, ending a six‑month spell.
Benzema moved from Real Madrid to Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad in 2023 and spent three seasons there before joining Al‑Hilal. New signings, including Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa, pushed him down the pecking order, prompting him to look elsewhere in the Saudi league and consider a move to Major League Soccer.
Jadon Sancho – ex‑Manchester United and Chelsea
Once hailed as one of England and Europe’s brightest talents, Jadon Sancho’s career has taken a disappointing turn. At 26, the winger is a free agent after being released by Manchester United, for whom he joined from Borussia Dortmund in 2021 for £73 million. Sancho’s time at Old Trafford was marred by loans to Aston Villa and Chelsea, and his significant wage‑package will have to be reduced if he signs elsewhere.
Raheem Sterling – ex‑Liverpool and Arsenal
Another former England star who once looked destined for the top, Raheem Sterling faces a crucial period in his career. Having started at Queens Park Rangers, he broke through at Liverpool and later played for Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal before a brief stint with Feyenoord, where he was released after only eight appearances.
Riyad Mahrez – ex‑Manchester City
One of the most impressive talents of his generation, Riyad Mahrez lifted the Premier League title with Leicester City before a glittering spell with Manchester City, where he claimed five domestic trophies. Now 35, Mahrez was released by Saudi club Al Ahli, but his record of 37 goals in 122 appearances suggests he will not struggle to find a new club.
Philippe Coutinho, Dani Carvajal and David Alaba also available
At 34, Philippe Coutinho remains a creative force capable of operating in the midfield for any top‑level side. After a standout career at Liverpool and Barcelona, the Brazilian has taken a brief hiatus from professional football, though MLS clubs have long been linked with him.
Few players leave Real Madrid as a free agent and find themselves without suitors. Dani Carvajal, 34, departs after a 13‑year tenure with the La Liga giants, having built a stellar reputation on the flank.
David Alaba, another Real Madrid free agent, has been linked with Manchester United. The 34‑year‑old defender could serve as useful cover on the left side of defence for United, a position they failed to reinforce during the summer window.
