Star-Studded Free Agents: What Lies Ahead for Pogba, Benzema, Sancho, and Sterling After the Transfer Window?

Although the European transfer window has closed for the summer, several high-profile players remain available to be signed as free agents by clubs across the globe before the January window opens. Al Jazeera examines the top players currently without a contract.

Paul Pogba – ex-Manchester United and Juventus
The career of Paul Pogba remains a major talking point. After serving an 18-month doping ban until March 2025 and battling various injuries, the 33-year-old saw his contract with Monaco terminated last month. Having joined Monaco from Juventus last summer, the 2018 World Cup winner made only six appearances for the French club.

Karim Benzema – ex-Real Madrid
Another World Cup and Ballon d'Or winner, Karim Benzema, is also searching for a new team after his contract with Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League was terminated on Monday. Following moves from Real Madrid to Al Ittihad in 2023 and a subsequent stint at Al-Hilal, the 38-year-old is now contemplating options in the Saudi league and Major League Soccer.

Jadon Sancho – ex-Manchester United and Chelsea
At just 26 years old, Jadon Sancho finds his career at a crossroads after being released by Manchester United. Following loan spells at Aston Villa and Chelsea during his time at Old Trafford, the former Borussia Dortmund and Manchester City youth product is attracting global interest, though he will likely need to adjust his wage expectations.

Raheem Sterling – ex-Liverpool and Arsenal
Raheem Sterling faces a crucial juncture following a diverse career featuring stints at Queens Park Rangers, Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Arsenal. Most recently, the 31-year-old winger was released by Feyenoord after just three months and eight appearances.

Riyad Mahrez – ex-Manchester City
Riyad Mahrez, a former Premier League winner with Leicester City and five-time top-flight champion with Manchester City, has been released by Saudi club Al Ahli following his appearance at the FIFA World Cup 2026 with Algeria. The 35-year-old forward scored 37 goals in 122 appearances during his three years in Saudi Arabia.

Philippe Coutinho, Dani Carvajal, and David Alaba Also Available
Philippe Coutinho, 34, is currently taking a break after leaving Vasco de Gama in February, with the MLS heavily linked to the former Liverpool star. Meanwhile, long-serving Real Madrid veterans Dani Carvajal and David Alaba have also departed the club this summer, with Alaba already drawing interest from Manchester United.