Mohamed Salah, Lionel Messi, and the Top 13 Free Agents of 2025 Ready to Make Waves in January
The 2025 football transfer market is poised for seismic shifts as some of the biggest stars in the sport enter the final six months of their contracts. Starting this January, players can legally negotiate pre-contract agreements with foreign clubs, setting the stage for potentially groundbreaking moves. From iconic legends to emerging talents, this list of 13 free agents features players who could redefine the dynamics of world football.
Here’s a look at the top 13 free agents of 2025, ranked by their potential impact, legacy, and marketability.
1. Lionel Messi
Even at 37, Lionel Messi remains a transformative player. After leading Inter Miami to unprecedented success in Major League Soccer, speculation is rife about whether the Argentine maestro will return to Europe or extend his legacy in North America. A potential move could see Messi add another chapter to his illustrious career, likely at a club capable of harnessing his creative brilliance.
2. Mohamed Salah
Mohamed Salah has been a mainstay at Liverpool, but rumors of a move to Saudi Arabia have only intensified. With his contract set to expire, clubs worldwide are vying for the Egyptian’s signature. Salah’s pace, technical skill, and goal-scoring prowess make him a coveted asset for any top-tier team.
3. Luka Modrić
The evergreen Croatian midfielder has shown no signs of slowing down. With Real Madrid likely moving toward a younger midfield, Modrić could seek a final challenge, possibly in the MLS or a return to a former club like Tottenham.
4. Toni Kroos
Kroos, another midfield maestro at Real Madrid, has hinted at retirement but has yet to commit. If he decides to continue, his passing range and vision could bolster any squad aiming for elite European success.
5. Antoine Griezmann
Griezmann’s resurgence at Atlético Madrid has been remarkable, but his future remains uncertain. A versatile attacker with flair and experience, the Frenchman could attract suitors from Europe and beyond.
6. David de Gea
Following his departure from Manchester United in 2023, David de Gea has yet to secure a long-term deal. The Spanish goalkeeper remains a proven shot-stopper, and his experience could appeal to clubs looking to solidify their last line of defense.
7. Sergio Ramos
Sergio Ramos’s leadership and defensive prowess continue to make him a standout performer. A veteran of countless battles, Ramos could bring experience and steel to a club looking for defensive reinforcements.
8. Paulo Dybala
The Argentine playmaker has been the creative heartbeat for Roma but may be tempted by greener pastures. With his ability to unlock defenses and score crucial goals, Dybala could be a game-changer for an ambitious club.
9. Ilkay Gündogan
After leading Manchester City to a historic treble in 2023, Gündogan joined Barcelona, where he continues to shine. With his contract winding down, the German international could be an astute acquisition for a side seeking leadership and midfield dynamism.
10. Roberto Firmino
Firmino’s adaptability and flair make him a valuable asset. His recent spell at Al-Ahli showcased his enduring quality, but a return to European football cannot be ruled out.
11. Hugo Lloris
France’s World Cup-winning goalkeeper remains a reliable presence between the posts. Although his age might deter some clubs, his experience could prove vital in high-pressure situations.
12. Adrien Rabiot
Rabiot has enjoyed a strong spell at Juventus, but questions about his consistency remain. A box-to-box midfielder with a penchant for clutch goals, he could thrive under the right manager.
13. Ángel Di María
Even at 36, Di María’s technical abilities and match-winning instincts are undeniable. His next move could see him reunite with familiar faces or explore a fresh challenge.
Impact on the Transfer Market
The 2025 free-agent pool is rich with talent and experience, ensuring that this January’s negotiations will be intense. Clubs will not only be vying for proven performers like Salah and Messi but also eyeing players who can provide a blend of experience and adaptability, such as Modrić, Griezmann, and Ramos.
Future Prospects
The focus keyword, 2025 free agents, highlights a pivotal moment in the football calendar. These stars are not just players; they are icons whose movements will influence sponsorship deals, fan engagement, and tactical strategies. As January unfolds, the football world waits with bated breath to see where these 13 stars will shine next.
Whether they stay loyal or embark on fresh journeys, their decisions will undoubtedly shape the global football landscape.
