Summer transfer window: 10 players out of contract in 2026 who could shake up the market

The summer 2025 transfer window has officially closed. Clubs are now focused on the 2025-26 season—even though next summer, several key players will become free agents and could send ripples through the transfer market.

While the Premier League once again splashed the cash, other leagues opted for cheaper reinforcement strategies—particularly by signing players out of contract. At the end of the 2025-26 season, several big names—both seasoned veterans and ambitious younger talents—will become available. Sports Mole has highlighted ten such players.

Ibrahima Konate

Linked with Real Madrid all summer, Ibrahima Konate ultimately stayed at Liverpool. However, the central defender is set to become a free agent in June 2026, potentially energising the winter market. Liverpool are keen to renew his contract, while Real Madrid hope to sign him on a free transfer. Talks are ongoing, and the situation remains unresolved.

Dayot Upamecano

Also entering the final year of his contract in 2026, Dayot Upamecano was courted by Real Madrid this summer. Now, contract talks with Bayern Munich centred on a significant salary increase and a reduction in his hefty release clause of €120m (£104m), remain stalled. That said, both parties have recently resumed extension discussions, with Bayern reportedly preparing a deal running to 2030.

Robert Lewandowski

Despite being 37, Robert Lewandowski remains a world‑class striker, having scored 42 goals last season for Barcelona. His contract runs until June 2026, and while renewal plans were uncertain, Barcelona have since confirmed his stay until then, with the possibility of further extension.

Mike Maignan

Initially pushed towards the exit and linked with Chelsea, goalkeeper Mike Maignan retained AC Milan’s trust and was even handed the captaincy. Nonetheless, he will be a free agent next summer. His profile will certainly attract interest from numerous clubs.

Bernardo Silva

After over 400 appearances for Manchester City and being named captain, Bernardo Silva’s contract approaches its end in a few months. At 31, City appear unlikely to offer an extension, and his departure will mark the end of an era in England.

Marc Guehi

Despite completing a medical with Liverpool, Marc Guehi remains at Crystal Palace. The captain desired a move to a bigger club, but Palace blocked the transfer. With his contract expiring in 2026, he is likely to leave for free unless an extension is reached.

Frenkie de Jong

At Barcelona since 2019, Frenkie de Jong enters a decisive career moment. The club may extend his contract only if he accepts a salary decrease. Otherwise, the Dutch midfielder could leave on a free transfer next summer—a possibility that will attract Europe’s elite.

Thibaut Courtois

About to turn 34 in May, Thibaut Courtois remains among Europe’s best goalkeepers. Real Madrid appear willing to extend his contract by two years—an exception to their usual reluctance for older players. Discussions are ongoing.

Dusan Vlahovic

Touted as Cristiano Ronaldo’s successor, Dusan Vlahovic never established himself as a world‑class striker. He chose to honour his Juventus contract despite Turkish interest. With Juventus signing Jonathan David and Lois Openda, Vlahovic’s free‑transfer exit in 2026 seems inevitable.

Raul Asencio

The promising product of Real Madrid’s academy, Raul Asencio struggled to make an impact. As Madrid search for centre‑back reinforcements, his departure upon contract expiry is increasingly plausible—especially in light of his ongoing legal issues.

Bonus player: John Stones

Many Manchester City fans expected John Stones to depart this summer, but he remains. Nevertheless, the 32‑year‑old defender is likely entering his final season with the Sky Blues. He will undoubtedly attract strong interest once he becomes a free agent.

This article was originally published on Top Mercato.