30 footballers who will be free agents in the summer

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Football Muse

·7 January 2026

30 footballers who will be free agents in the summer

January is here and with it the opportunity for football clubs to approach 2026 free agents on pre-contract agreements.

Free agency has become a major part of football transfers, with Kylian Mbappe among the big names to have secured high-profile Bosman transfers in recent windows.

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The class of 2026 is filled with elite defenders, in particular the centre-back market.After seeing a £35m deadline day move to Liverpool collapse in the summer, Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi is set to be available for nothing in July.

Liverpool are understood to remain interested in the England defender, though expect competition from rival suitors in the Premier League and wider Europe. The interest from the Reds comes amid Ibrahima Konate’s contract situation, with the Frenchman another whose deal is rapidly running down.

Completing a high-profile defensive trio is Dayot Upamecano, though Bayern Munich have not given up hope of persuading the centre-back to sign fresh terms.

In terms of attacking talent, Robert Lewandowski could leave Barcelona. Though the Polish forward will turn 37 in August, a return of seven goals in nine La Liga games this season proves his evergreen quality.

Alternatively, Dusan Vlahovic, signed for around €70m by Juventus in 2022, looks set to be available on a free transfer.

Clubs can approach free agents to discuss terms for the summer and this list is stacked full of talent.