This summer's free agent market is stacked with talent across all age groups. From young stars like Arthur Avom to seasoned veterans like Robert Lewandowski, clubs have a chance to bolster their squads without paying transfer fees. Here, we compare two out-of-contract XIs: one featuring players in their 20s and another with players in their 30s.
Out-of-Contract XI: Players in Their 20s
Goalkeeper: Illan Meslier (26) – The Leeds United shot-stopper has not played a first-team game since March 2025 and is reportedly contemplating his future after being seen alone on the Elland Road pitch.
Right-back: Óscar Mingueza (26) – The Spain international, formerly of Barcelona, has been linked with Newcastle, Aston Villa, and Juventus. He can also play centre-back and prefers a move to the Premier League.
Centre-back: Ibrahima Konaté (27) – The French defender, in his prime, is set to join Real Madrid after talks with Liverpool over a new deal broke down. Florentino Pérez has identified him as a key target.
Centre-back: Marcos Senesi (29) – Despite missing out on a World Cup call-up, the Argentinian had a stellar season for Bournemouth. Tottenham are close to announcing his signing after he contributed five assists and led the Premier League in progressive passes per 90 minutes (9.3).
Left-back: Souffian El Karouani (25) – The Dutch-born Moroccan international provided 18 assists for Utrecht in 2025-26 and will join Al-Qadsiah in Saudi Arabia, managed by Brendan Rodgers.
Right wing: Allan Saint-Maximin (29) – After a stint at Lens, where he scored a stunning solo goal on debut, the former Newcastle star is available. Lens finished as Ligue 1 runners-up.
Central midfield: Franck Kessié (29) – The ex-Milan and Barcelona midfielder has spent three seasons in Saudi Arabia and may return to Europe with Inter, Juventus, or Roma interested, but likely on reduced wages.
Central midfield: Arthur Avom (21) – The youngest on the list, Avom was crucial in Lorient's promotion to Ligue 1 and has impressed in the top flight. A reunion with former teammate Eli Junior Kroupi at Bournemouth is possible.
Left wing: Jadon Sancho (26) – Despite winning the Europa League on loan at Aston Villa, Sancho had an underwhelming season with just one goal. Manchester United chose to release him rather than extend his expensive contract.
Attacking midfield: Harry Wilson (29) – The Welshman had his best season with Fulham, scoring 10 goals and providing seven assists in the Premier League, including a stunning trivela against Crystal Palace. Heavily linked with Aston Villa.
Striker: Dusan Vlahovic (26) – The former Fiorentina star joined Juventus for £58m but leaves for free with only a Coppa Italia title. Bayern Munich, Chelsea, and Newcastle are circling.
Out-of-Contract XI: Players in Their 30s
Goalkeeper: Yann Sommer (37) – The two-time Scudetto winner has been excellent for Inter since replacing André Onana. Inter have offered an extension as a backup, but Ajax are also interested.
Right-back: Dani Carvajal (34) – After 23 years at Real Madrid, 450 appearances, and 27 trophies, Carvajal departs. The arrivals of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Denzel Dumfries have pushed him out. Florentino Pérez called him a legend.
Centre-back: Antonio Rüdiger (33) – The German defender's contract is expiring, but Real Madrid may offer a one-year extension, a club policy for players over 30. José Mourinho is a fan.
Centre-back: John Stones (32) – The Englishman leaves Manchester City after 10 trophy-laden years. The World Cup offers a chance to impress suitors. A return to Everton could be blocked by interest from Bayern and Vincent Kompany.
Left-back: Andy Robertson (32) – The Scot's move from Liverpool to Tottenham was confirmed on Friday. Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi called him a proven winner.
Central midfield: Casemiro (34) – The Brazilian had ups and downs at Manchester United but received a hero's farewell. He is likely to move to Saudi Arabia or MLS after earning close to £365,000-a-week.
Central midfield: Julian Brandt (30) – The Dortmund midfielder turned 30 last month and was sometimes brilliant but inconsistent. Atlético Madrid are hovering as he was left out of Germany's World Cup squad.
Attacking midfield: Bernardo Silva (31) – Pep Guardiola called Silva his weakness, and the Portuguese is leaving Manchester City despite a brilliant season. Agent Jorge Mendes says he will decide his future after the World Cup, with Barcelona and Benfica favorites.
Attacking midfield: Paulo Dybala (32) – The Argentinian is expected to renew with Roma after the club raised its offer. However, Palermo made an audacious bid to bring him back to Sicily.
Striker: Robert Lewandowski (37) – The Polish striker scored 14 league goals for Barcelona last season and remains world-class, but his wage demands point to a move to Saudi Arabia or MLS.
Striker: Memphis Depay (32) – The Netherlands' all-time leading scorer has said he loves Corinthians and wants to stay, but the club needs to show ambition. He is heading to the World Cup.
Which team is stronger? The young XI boasts pace and potential, while the older XI offers experience and proven quality. It's a tough call, but fans will enjoy watching where these stars land.
