The 2026 summer transfer window may have officially closed across most of Europe, but a number of big-name players are still without clubs and remain available on free transfers.
The list includes former Premier League stars, Champions League winners, and players with significant international experience, allowing clubs to add proven quality without paying a transfer fee.
While their availability depends on individual league registration rules, several of these players could still attract offers in the coming weeks.
According to the BBC, here are 10 of the biggest names currently available:
1. Paul Pogba, 33—Last club: Monaco
Paul Pogba is still searching for a new club after Monaco terminated his contract last month.
The French midfielder joined the Ligue 1 side last summer following the completion of his 18-month doping ban in March 2025. However, injuries have made it difficult for him to establish himself, with Pogba managing only six appearances before his contract was cut short.
His Monaco deal still had another year remaining before both parties parted ways.
2. Karim Benzema, 38—Last club: Al-Hilal
Karim Benzema is another high-profile player currently on the market after his contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal was terminated on August 31.
The former Real Madrid striker moved to Saudi Arabia in 2023, initially joining Al-Ittihad before later switching to Al-Hilal.
Despite featuring three times for Al-Hilal this season, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner is now looking for his next destination.
3. Riyad Mahrez, 35—Last club: Al Ahli
Riyad Mahrez became a free agent after Al Ahli brought his contract to an end.
The Algerian winger left Manchester City for the Saudi club in 2023 and went on to register 37 goals in 122 appearances across competitions.
Mahrez could remain in Saudi Arabia, however, with reports linking him with a possible move to Al-Shabab.
4. Raheem Sterling, 31—Last club: Feyenoord
Raheem Sterling is available again after his short-lived spell with Feyenoord came to an end.
The former Liverpool, Manchester City, and Chelsea winger spent just three months in the Netherlands, making eight appearances before leaving the club.
Sterling has endured a difficult period in recent seasons and is now looking for an opportunity to revive his career.
5. Philippe Coutinho, 34—Last club: Vasco da Gama
Philippe Coutinho remains without a club after leaving Brazilian side Vasco da Gama in February.
The former Liverpool and Barcelona playmaker has endured several difficult years since leaving Anfield and has not formally announced his retirement.
A move to Major League Soccer has previously been mentioned as a possible option for the Brazilian.
6. Jadon Sancho, 26—Last club: Manchester United
Jadon Sancho is another high-profile free agent following a turbulent spell since his £73 million transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Manchester United in 2021.
The England winger has spent the last two-and-a-half years away from Old Trafford on loan, with Aston Villa his latest temporary destination after an unsuccessful period at Chelsea.
Sancho made just 30 Premier League appearances for United and could potentially return to Dortmund, who have reportedly shown interest in bringing him back to Germany.
7. Dani Carvajal, 34—Last club: Real Madrid
Dani Carvajal became a free agent when his long-term Real Madrid contract expired in June.
The Spanish full-back spent 13 years with the club, making 451 appearances and establishing himself as one of the most decorated players in his position.
The veteran defender has yet to secure a new club and has reportedly maintained his fitness by training at facilities belonging to the Spanish Football Federation alongside compatriot Joselu.
8. Jamie Vardy, 39—Last club: Cremonese
Jamie Vardy is searching for his next challenge after leaving Cremonese.
The veteran forward ended his remarkable 13-year association with Leicester City last year before moving to Italy. However, Cremonese’s relegation to Serie B was followed by Vardy’s departure.
A return to England could now be on the cards, with Wrexham, Sheffield Wednesday and West Ham among the clubs previously linked with the experienced striker.
9. David Alaba, 34—Last club: Real Madrid
David Alaba is another decorated defender available after leaving Real Madrid in May following five seasons in Spain.
The Austria international attracted interest from several clubs during the summer, with Manchester United previously emerging as one of the potential destinations.
Alaba’s résumé remains impressive, having won 12 league titles and four Champions League trophies during a hugely successful career.
10. Sergio Ramos, 40—Last club: Monterrey
At 40, Sergio Ramos is the oldest player among the major names on the list.
The legendary Spanish defender has been without a club since leaving Mexican side Monterrey in December 2025 but has not yet announced his retirement.
Ramos continues to believe he can compete at a high level, while his activities away from football have also kept him in the spotlight. Earlier this year, he was involved in an unsuccessful attempt to acquire a controlling stake in his former club Sevilla.
Other notable free agents
Beyond the 10 biggest names, several other experienced players remain available for clubs looking to add depth.
The list includes Jordan Ayew, Dele Alli, Joselu, Anthony Martial, Conor Coady, Wilfried Zaha, and James Rodriguez.
Tyrell Malacia, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Solly March, Georginio Wijnaldum, and Yves Bissouma are also among the notable players still without clubs.
With the European transfer window now closed, these free agents could provide attractive options for teams seeking experienced additions without having to negotiate a traditional transfer fee.