Top 10 best free agents available on the market right now

Many top players are available as free agents this summer.

With the 2024–25 season fast approaching, the summer transfer window is heating up as a number of clubs across the world have already made several world-class signings.

The eye-catching moments of every transfer window are undoubtedly the big-money signings of superstar players that ultimately draw all the media attention and fan excitement. However, the real-value deals lie on the opposite end of the spectrum in the market, which is the free agent category. Clubs sign these players on a contractual deal without having to pay a single penny in transfer fees.

With that said, here are the top 10 best free agents available on the market right now:

10. Adrien Rabiot

After five years at Juventus, Adrien Rabiot is officially a free agent on the market due to failed talks over a new contract. His versatility, technical ability and footballing intelligence make him one of the most well-rounded midfielders in world football currently.

With a host of top clubs, such as Manchester United and AC Milan, interested in signing him this summer, the 29-year-old midfielder is expected to demand a high salary and a lucrative signing-on fee. Adrien Rabiot’s valuable experiences with elite teams such as Juventus and PSG make him a suitable fit for any club in the world.

9. Mario Hermoso

One of the most versatile defenders in the world, Mario Hermoso, has officially left Spanish giants Atletico Madrid as a free agent this summer after a five-year stint at the club. During this period, Hermoso was one of the mainstays in Diego Simeone’s robust defensive setup.

The 29-year-old defender showcased his versatility and strong passing range by slotting in multiple positions across the backline, such as centre-back and left-back. With clubs such as Aston Villa interested in acquiring his services, Mario Hermoso on a free transfer could definitely prove to be the bargain of the summer.

8. Serge Aurier

After spending just six months with Turkish giants Galatasaray, versatile defender Serge Aurier is available yet again as a free agent this summer. He has played for top clubs such as PSG, Tottenham Hotspur, Nottingham Forest and Villarreal throughout his career.

Aurier’s leadership skills, experience and utility as a player make him a perfect signing for mid-table sides that are looking for budget-friendly squad options this transfer window. The 31-year-old Ivorian can comfortably put in a solid shift anywhere across the backline.

7. Kelechi Iheanacho

After helping Leicester City get back to the Premier League by winning the EFL Championship last season, Kelechi Iheanacho has officially departed the club as a free agent after seven years. In the 2023–24 campaign, Iheanacho bagged six goals and three assists across all competitions.

The 27-year-old forward could be a smart pick for several mid-table clubs of various leagues, with his clinical finishing and rapid pace making him a dynamic force in attack.

6. Anthony Martial

French forward Anthony Martial finally brought his nine-year stay at Manchester United to an end after he departed the Premier League giants as a free agent this summer. After a strong few initial years at the club, Martial’s performances were hindered by recurring injury problems and overall poor form.

With his experience and skillset, the 28-year-old forward could serve as a perfect backup option for many top clubs across Europe.

5. Memphis Depay

After just a year at Atletico Madrid, Dutch forward Memphis Depay parted ways with the club as a free agent in order to experience a fresh challenge at a new team. Last season, Depay made 31 appearances across all competitions, registering nine goals and two assists in the process.

The 30-year-old forward also made key contributions of one goal and one assist during the Netherlands’ incredible semifinal run in Euro 2024. Memphis Depay’s versatility, goal threat and leadership could make him a dream signing for any top team in the world.

4. Joel Matip

One of the most underrated defenders in recent times has been Cameroonian centre-back Joel Matip, who departed Liverpool as a free agent this summer after an eight-year stint at the club.

Despite his consistent world-class performances, Matip’s time at Merseyside was constantly hampered by several injury issues, which resulted in the Liverpool hierarchy not offering him a new deal.

With clubs such as Bayer Leverkusen keen on acquiring the services of the 32-year-old centre-back, a top-club move is definitely on the cards for the elite defender.

3. Mats Hummels

Veteran German centre-back Mats Hummels brought an end to his second stint at Borussia Dortmund after he left the club as a free agent this summer. Hummels enjoyed a stellar last campaign as his rock-solid performances guided Dortmund all the way to the Champions League final.

With his wealth of experience and world-class abilities, the 35-year-old defender is still at the very top of his game. Mats Hummels is on the radar of several teams, such as Bologna for a short-term deal, as he can add incredible value to any backline with his colossal presence.

2. David de Gea

Spanish goalkeeper David de Gea is still, surprisingly, a free agent after leaving Manchester United a year ago on the expiration of his club contract. Despite concrete interest from several top clubs in the Premier League and the Saudi Pro League, the 33-year-old shot stopper has still not managed to find the ideal team to make his return to club football.

During his 12-year stint at Manchester United, David de Gea was consistently one of the best goalkeepers in the world, with his elite shot-stopping skills on full display. With no signs of potential retirement, the experienced Spaniard could still serve as the first choice in goal for a host of top teams.

1. Wissam Ben Yedder

One of the most prolific strikers in front of goal during recent years has been Wissam Ben Yedder, who is currently available as a free agent after the expiration of his contract at AS Monaco.

During his five-year stay at the club, the 33-year-old forward made 201 appearances across all competitions recording incredible numbers of 118 goals and 34 assists in the process.

A host of top clubs across the world will undoubtedly be in a tussle this summer to sign a stellar target man in the form of Wissam Ben Yedder on a free transfer.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram.