While the summer transfer window might have slammed shut over the weekend, there are plenty of European superstars who are still sat by their phones waiting for a new adventure.
Although former Atletico Madrid defender Mario Hermoso might have completed a move to Italian giants Roma on Monday, there are a host of big-names that are available on a free transfer.
On a list that includes a host of domestic champions, we have taken a look at some of the most intriguing free agents that are waiting for a new challenge.
Adrien Rabiot
While France might have endured a frustrating summer over in Germany as they watched their EURO 24 adventure come to an end at the semi-final stage, Adrien Rabiot was one of Les Bleus’ standout performers.
Playing a crucial role in the heart of Didier Deschamps’ midfield, Italian giants Juventus were left shocked prior to this summer’s European Championships as the 29-year-old announced he would not be signing a new deal in Turin.
Getting his hands on six domestic titles during his tenure at both Juventus and PSG, the one-time Manchester City youngster shockingly remains without a new club.
While it might have been reported over the past month that Rabiot has a Premier League switch at the top of his agenda, there are plenty of European heavyweights that are all keeping a close eye on the 48-cap international.
Alongside continued speculation over a potential approach from AC Milan, it has also been suggested that Barcelona have reached out to Rabiot’s representatives and are keen on offering a blockbuster deal.
🚨Fabrizio Romano: “I can guarantee you that Adrien Rabiot has been offered to Manchester United several times over the summer, in July and August. The position of United has been very clear. They never thought about Eriksen out, and Rabiot in. But he’s one of the interesting… pic.twitter.com/7bKgiEiQ2y
— United Zone (@ManUnitedZone_) September 2, 2024
Alex Telles
While the likes of England international Ivan Toney and ex-Aston Villa star Moussa Diaby might have completed their own respective big-money moves to Saudi Arabia this summer, one former Premier League ace has left the Middle East.
Although Alex Telles might have only joined Saudi-based giants Al Nassr last summer after leaving Manchester United, the 31-year-old is already on the move.
In what was a shock announcement earlier in the week, it was confirmed that Telles had torn up his contract with Al Nassr by mutual consent and is now officially a free agent.
Although the Brazilian international might have made 38 appearances across all competitions in what was his maiden campaign for the Gulf nation outfit, Telles was deemed surplus to requirements by boss Luis Castro.
Reportedly earning a whopping £7million for just his one-year stint in Saudi Arabia, Al Nassr were desperate to get the former Porto defender off their wage bill and Telles now has his sights set on a return to South America.
AlNassr can announce that the Brazilian star Alex Telles has left the Club by mutual agreement.
Thanks for everything, Alex 🙏💛pic.twitter.com/lLQCzv0mfM
— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) September 2, 2024
Memphis Depay
With it announced prior to this summer’s European Championships that he would be leading Spanish heavyweights Atletico Madrid, many are surprised by the fact that Memphis Depay still remains without a new club.
Although there might have been plenty of excitement around Madrid following the arrival of the Dutch international from domestic rivals Barcelona back in January of last year, Depay largely struggled to find his feet under Diego Simeone.
Dealing with a string of injury issues and quickly falling down Simeone’s striking pecking order, the 30-year-old only mustered five La Liga strikes last season and both parties felt that a move away from the Metropolitano was best.
Featuring in all six of Holland’s appearances at EURO 24, the former Manchester United misfit has attracted plenty of interest from across the continent.
Reportedly rejecting a big-money offer from Turkish giants Galatasaray, it has been suggested that Sevilla are keen on keeping Depay in Spain and are in discussions over a potential free swoop over the coming weeks.
#Sevilla and #RayoVallecano are interested in Memphis #Depay as a free agent. The dutch forward has also been approached by #Flamengo and a Saudi Club, but he wants to continue to play in Europe. #transfers
— Nicolò Schira (@NicoSchira) September 2, 2024
Joel Matip
While Jurgen Klopp might have officially left Liverpool at the end of the 2023/24 campaign, the ex-Borussia Dortmund boss was not the only Anfield hero to leave the red half of Merseyside.
Originally one of Klopp’s first signings at Anfield after arriving German outfit Schalke back in February 2016, Joel Matip cemented his spot as a modern day icon with the Reds.
Making 201 appearances before leaving Liverpool over the summer, the former Cameroon international won both the Champions League and Premier League during his eight-year stay.
However, despite reports over the past month linking Matip with a move to Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen, it appears that the 32-year-old could be extending his stay among England’s elite.
While Matip might have dealt with an injury-hit campaign at Anfield last season after sustains a long-term knee issue, it has been suggested that West Ham have opened talks over a potential move.
West Ham United are exploring the free agent market to bring in a central defender. Joel Matip & John Egan are two players they are looking at and talks are ongoing with their representatives as per @ExWHUEmployee. Kurt Zouma & Nayef Aguerd left the club on loan last week. #WHUFC
— Dharmesh Sheth (@skysports_sheth) September 2, 2024
Conclusion:
As the summer transfer window has come to a close, the free agent market is buzzing with top European talents looking for new challenges and opportunities. Players like Adrien Rabiot, Alex Telles, Memphis Depay, and Joel Matip are among those seeking new clubs.
With speculation and interest from various top clubs across Europe, these free agents have the chance to make a significant impact wherever they land. Whether it’s a return to familiar leagues or a new adventure in uncharted territory, the upcoming weeks promise to be exciting for both the players and the clubs in pursuit.
Stay tuned to DeFi Daily News for more trending news articles on the latest transfer updates and player movements in the world of football.
