Pogba, Sterling and Vardy…

The summer transfer window may be shut, but plenty of quality free agents are still on the market. Here’s a snapshot of some of the biggest names currently without a club.

Paul Pogba, 33 (last club: Monaco)
After his 18-month doping ban ended in March 2025, Pogba saw limited action, managing just six games for Monaco. A run of injuries led the club to cancel his deal a year early last month.

Karim Benzema, 38 (last club: Al Hilal)
The French great moved to Saudi Arabia in 2023, spending three years with Al Ittihad before switching to Al Hilal. Six months into that stint—and after the arrivals of Crysencio Summerville, Ollie Watkins and Gabriel Martinelli—his contract was terminated on 31 August, despite three appearances this season.

Riyad Mahrez, 35 (last club: Al Ahli)
The five-time Premier League winner also had his Saudi Pro League contract terminated. He left Manchester City for Al Ahli in 2023 and tallied 37 goals in 122 matches in all competitions. Reports link him with a move to Al-Shabab.

Raheem Sterling, 31 (last club: Feyenoord)
Released after just three months and eight appearances, Sterling is due in court next month on a dangerous driving charge related to a May crash. Those close to him say he has endured a very challenging couple of years. Former clubs include Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea.

Philippe Coutinho, 34 (last club: Vasco da Gama)
The ex-Liverpool and Barcelona playmaker left Vasco da Gama in February, saying he felt mentally exhausted. He hasn’t formally retired and has previously been linked with MLS.

Jadon Sancho, 26 (last club: Manchester United)
Since a £73m move in 2021, Sancho has spent the past two and a half years out on loan, most recently at Aston Villa after a disappointing spell at Chelsea. He made only 30 Premier League appearances for United and is reportedly set to join Palmeiras.

Dani Carvajal, 34 (last club: Real Madrid)
Regarded as one of the era’s standout right-backs, Carvajal became a free agent in June after 451 appearances across 13 seasons with Real Madrid. He hasn’t been strongly linked elsewhere and has been training at Spain’s federation facilities alongside fellow free agent Joselu.

Jamie Vardy, 39 (last club: Cremonese)
After leaving Leicester City following 13 years, Vardy spent last season with Cremonese. Their drop to Serie B prompted his exit. He’s been heavily linked with returns to England, with Wrexham, Sheffield Wednesday and West Ham all reportedly interested.

David Alaba, 34 (last club: Real Madrid)
The versatile defender departed Real Madrid in May after five years. At one stage Manchester United were bookmakers’ favourites for his signature. With 12 league titles and four Champions Leagues to his name, he remains unattached despite widespread speculation.