Despite the January transfer window shutting, there is still plenty of talent available who do not have clubs and be signed at any point in the season
Even though the winter transfer window has shut, clubs across the world still have one avenue to strengthen their squads this season: signing free agents – players without a contract who are free to join a new team at any time.
There are a number of high-profile footballers still available that could add experience, quality, or firepower to clubs without requiring a transfer fee.
Among them are a four-time Champions League winner, a four-time Premier League winner and a World Cup Golden Boot winner, as well as various others with renowned pedigree in European competition.
Here are 10 notable players still on the market:
Raheem Sterling
The former England international recently left Chelsea by mutual consent, making him one of the most talked-about free agents. The winger still brings Premier League and Champions League experience and could be a valuable option for clubs needing an attacking spark.
James Rodríguez
The former Real Madrid playmaker is without a club and keen to find regular football, especially as he targets a spot in Colombia’s World Cup squad, making him a smart signing for teams needing creativity in midfield.
Football doesn’t produce number 10’s like this anymore 🤦♂️
James Rodriguez was that player you enjoyed watching playing on the pitch🪄😆 https://t.co/nOHZFX2Et3 pic.twitter.com/1pDdKD5NK1— Shad Squad LFC (@Shadowoff014) January 24, 2026
Juan Bernat
The experienced left-back, formerly with PSG and Bayern Munich, has been a free agent since last summer and still offers top-level defensive quality and Champions League pedigree.
Tiémoué Bakayoko
The midfield enforcer – famously a €40m signing of Chelsea’s from Monaco in 2017 – is out of contract and could bring strength and physical presence to any midfield.
Kurt Zouma
Two-time Premier League winner and one-time Champions League winner – the French centre-back is still without a club and would bolster any defence with his aerial ability and experience in top European leagues.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
The former Arsenal and Liverpool midfielder is currently a free agent after his contract with Besiktas was mutually terminated, and he’s keeping fit while training with Arsenal as he explores his next destination.
Serge Aurier
The right-back brings Premier League and European competition experience, useful for clubs looking to upgrade full-back options without a transfer fee.
Dele Alli
Once one of England’s brightest midfield talents, the former Tottenham player is still searching for a new club and could be a low-risk signing for teams willing to help him rediscover his best form.
Jesse Lingard
The former Manchester United and England midfielder has recently left FC Seoul and is now a free agent again, drawing interest from clubs in Europe, the Middle East, and beyond as he seeks his next challenge.
Sergio Ramos
The legendary centre-back has recently become a free agent after leaving Monterrey at the end of his contract, offering clubs a rare chance to sign one of Spain’s most decorated defenders.
From seasoned internationals to versatile specialists, there are a number of players available that could make impactful additions without having to break the bank.