Contracts expire at the end of every season, and players leave their clubs as free agents for new challenges. This season, though, the list of players out of a contract at the end of the campaign is rather shocking. To that end, let’s have a look at the top ten free agents this summer.
10) Jerome Boateng
After spending a decade with the German giants, Boateng joins Javi Martinez and David Alaba who leave the club as free agents. Boateng has won every trophy available more than once, and also won the World Cup in 2014 with Germany.
9) Emerson Royal
Valued at €25 million by Transfermarkt, the Real Betis right-back is jointly owned by Barcelona. He has provided a goal and 4 assists in 31 games this season and could leave as a free agent in the summer.
8) Hakan Calhanoglu
The AC Milan midfielder has been their most creative player this season and is essential to their plans going forward. Milan are yet to negotiate a new contract with the player, who has been targeted by Manchester United.
7) Lucas Vasquez
Filling in as a right-back despite originally being a right-winger, Vasquez has been very important to Zinedine Zidane’s Real Madrid this season. His versatility makes him a very valuable asset for any team in the world, and he will be available for free at the end of the campaign.
6) Gini Wijnaldum
The Liverpool midfielder has rejected contract offers from Liverpool on multiple occasions. Barcelona are the most interested in his services and could have their man in the summer for free.
5) Gigio Donnarumma
Donnarumma is arguably the most talented goalkeeper in Serie A and has been scouted by Chelsea extensively. While he intends on staying in Milan, he will not be able to do so without a contractual agreement with Milan, which has been stalled time and time again.
4) Memphis Depay
The Dutch international was all set to join Barcelona last summer, but the Catalonians were unable to spend enough to convince Lyon. This summer, the player will be available for free and could reunite with his former national team coach, Ronald Koeman.
3) Sergio Aguero
A Manchester City legend, if there ever was one, Kun Aguero will be leaving City after a decade at the club. His destination is unknown, but his last match for Manchester City will be the Champions League final against Chelsea, which could see him deservingly go out with the biggest prize in club football.
2) Sergio Ramos
Ramos has been insistent on his demands for a two-year contract with Real Madrid, but the club is unwilling to oblige. Hence, the Madrid skipper could leave the club this summer, which gives rise to the unbelievable possibility of seeing Sergio Ramos play in a shirt not belonging to Real Madrid or Spain.
1) Lionel Messi
While there are positive feelings regarding the situation at Barcelona, Leo Messi still hasn’t agreed on a new deal with the club yet. Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City are both keen on having the legend if he doesn’t extend his contract with Barcelona.