Who are the best players available on a free transfer this summer? - (2026)

Updated: 13/03/2026

It’s the All-Star Out-of-Contract XI

There’ll be plenty of money thrown around in the transfer window this month, but there are a few bargains to be found as well.

Players who run out of contract in the summer can start to negotiate a free transfer this month.

There could be real value, as this team made up of potential free agents demonstrates…

GK: Petr Cech (Arsenal)

The Arsenal shot-stopper may be past his best, but his experience could still prove to be very valuable. Just don’t ask him to play out from the back.

RB: Matteo Darmian (Manchester United)

Darmian’s struggled to establish himself during his time at United, but he’s a reliable defensive option on both flanks.

CB: Diego Godin (Atletico Madrid)

Has there been a better centre-back than Diego Godin in recent years? The bedrock of Atletico Madrid’s backline, he’d be an asset anywhere.

CB: David Luiz (Chelsea)

Luiz’s passing from the back has been very handy for Chelsea, but their policy of only offering players over 30-years-old a one-year deal means he could leave.

LB: Filipe Luis (Atletico Madrid)

Another key member of that Atletico backline, Luis is getting on but his crossing remains a dangerous weapon from the left.

RM: Arjen Robben (Bayern Munich)

Everyone knows exactly what Robben’s going to do when he picks up the ball on the right. But good luck stopping him.

CM: Aaron Ramsey (Arsenal)

Ramsey’s dynamism and skill make him an ideal modern midfielder. Juventus are currently 1/2 favourites to snap him up.

CM: James Milner (Liverpool)

Milner’s played a big role in Liverpool’s surge to the top of the table this term. With the Reds 5/6 to win the title, he may feel his work at Anfield is done if they get over the line.

LM: Yacine Brahimi (Porto)

Regularly linked with a move to the Premier League, this could be Brahimi’s chance. The Algeria international gets fans out of their seats with his play in wide areas.

CF: Mario Balotelli (OGC Nice)

It’s never dull when Balotelli’s around. He’s got all the talent, but hasn’t always shown the focus needed to make it to the very top.

CF: Olivier Giroud (Chelsea)

With Gonzalo Higuain now 1/5 to move to Stamford Bridge, Giroud’s days may be numbered. Getting a World Cup winner for free would be a pretty good deal.

Click here for the latest transfer odds.

All Odds and Markets correct as of date of publication

Original source: http://news.coral.co.uk/football/who-are-the-best-players-available-on-a-free-transfer-this-summer.html

Relevant news