The list of high-profile players whose contracts expire in summer 2024 is not quite as impressive as it was a year ago, but there are still some big-name stars whose futures are far from being resolved.
The saga around Kylian Mbappé‘s potential move to Real Madrid continues, though sources have told ESPN he’s in talks over signing a new deal (which has been enough to see him reintegrated into the first-team squad again.) The usual array of ageing players such as Luka Modric and Toni Kroos make another appearance as they enter the final year of their contracts, but there are some youngsters who could be snapped up for nothing if they don’t put pen to paper over the coming months.
Meanwhile, there are already a few players who have yet to find themselves new clubs after being released over the summer.
Here’s a rundown of the most coveted.
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David de Gea, 32, GK
The former Manchester United goalkeeper has been linked with a host of clubs, particularly those from Saudi Arabia. With no contract, his next move won’t be subject to any transfer deadlines, so expect it to happen once he gets a wage offer he can stomach.
After years of Real Madrid links, it was something of a surprise when the LaLiga giants opted to sign Kepa on loan instead, so De Gea may take his time.
Jesse Lingard, 30, AM/FW
Released by Nottingham Forest, the former Man United midfielder could rejoin West Ham after he impressed during a loan spell in 2020-21. Lingard has also caught the eye of Wolves and — you guessed it — a number of clubs from the Saudi Pro League.
Eden Hazard, 32, FW
In 2019, Hazard made a €100 million move to Real Madrid from Chelsea as one of the world’s top players. The Belgium international struggled with injury and form — scoring just seven goals in 76 games — and left Madrid in June by mutual consent after his contract was terminated a year early.
“I still feel capable of being a professional footballer; my body can take it,” Hazard told Belgium’s RTBF. But he will have to prove it. Otherwise you may see him retire soon.
