Mbappé, Barco, Rabiot, Dier among top free agents in 2024،
The list of high-profile players whose contracts expire in the summer of 2024 isn't as impressive as it was a year ago, but there are still a few big stars whose futures are far from clear. resolved.
The saga around Kylian Mbappé's potential move to Real Madrid continues, although sources have told ESPN he is in talks to sign a new deal. The usual array of aging players such as Luka Modric and Toni Kroos make another appearance as they enter the final year of their contracts, but some youngsters could be brought in for nothing if they don't put pen to paper soon.
Here is an overview of the most coveted, not counting those like Anthony Martial and Aaron Wan-Bissaka who have the possibility of extending for another year.
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Kylian Mbappé, 24, outside, Paris Saint-Germain
One of the sagas of last summer. Mbappé signed a new three-year contract in 2022, turning down a free transfer to Real Madrid, but it was later revealed that it was a two-year contract with a third year only eligible if the French international activated it. He chose not to and told club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi that he wanted to leave, which saw him exiled from the first team during the preparatory tour to Japan.
PSG were open to offers and Al Hilal of the Saudi Pro League made a record offer of 300 million euros, which was accepted by the club but rejected by Mbappé.
Ultimately, the signing of Mbappé's friend Ousmane Dembélé and the departure of Neymar for 90 million euros persuaded the 24-year-old to change his mind. He agreed to sign new terms – likely containing a release clause of around €100-150 million – so the club could receive a transfer fee upon his departure. These terms have not yet been confirmed, so watch this space, but it is likely that he will be a Madrid player within the next six months. if they will have it.
Adrien Rabiot, 28 years old, CM, Juventus
After months of speculation over the possibility of leaving for Man United or Barcelona, Rabiot signed a one-year extension to his contract with Juve in June, but this only delayed a long-term decision on his future . The France international is a key player in Turin – with three goals and three assists in 16 games this season – and fans will want him to stick around for longer.
Luka Modric, 37 years old, CM, Real Madrid
Still going strong at 37, Modric joined Madrid in 2012 and won 23 trophies in 11 years at the Bernabeu. The Croatia international is no longer the central force he once was and has additional competition for places in Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, Aurélien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde. He is not happy with his playing time, however, with seven appearances in 15 league appearances coming from the bench so far, so don't rule out him extending his career elsewhere.
Meanwhile, Modric's teammate Toni Kroos is a little younger (33), but had already considered taking early retirement before his improved form and fitness over the past two years forced him to do so. convinces me to continue playing. However, the German midfielder has made it clear that he will retire at Real Madrid, so no other club will benefit from his skills on a free transfer.
Valentin Barco, 19, LB, Boca Juniors
One of the best young left-backs in the world, Barco's contract expires in December 2024 and he has already attracted interest from Brighton, Man City, Chelsea and Liverpool.
The Argentina U23 international reportedly has a $20 million release clause in his contract, making his signing possible before the end of his contract. However, he could draft terms that would increase his clause and ensure that Boca can profit a little better from his possible transfer.
Piotr Zielinski, 29 years old, CM, Naples
Zielinski has been a key player for the Serie A champions since his arrival in 2016, but with his next contract likely to be one of his last, he would like a pay rise. The Poland international is yet to agree terms with Napoli and is heavily tracked by league rivals Inter Milan, who could strike a deal to sign him for nothing.
Lloyd Kelly, 25, LB/CB, Bournemouth
Bournemouth have reportedly rejected a £20m bid from Tottenham to sign Kelly over the summer, and they could regret it if the versatile defender is keen to leave for nothing. January could be the club's last chance to collect a transfer fee and the list of suitors – now including AC Milan, Liverpool and Newcastle United – is growing.
Éric Dier, 29 years old, CB, Tottenham
Dier does not appear to be part of new boss Ange Postecoglou's plans at Spurs, having played four times this season – once from the start. Bayern were linked, having signed his former teammate Harry Kane for €100 million, while Nottingham Forest, Bournemouth and Fulham showed interest from the Premier League this summer. He could opt out of his contract and leave for free, but it's unlikely he'll get much playing time for the remainder of the season.
Thiago, 32 years old, CM, Liverpool
Liverpool have reshaped their entire midfield this summer, but the 32-year-old could also find himself pushed out the exit door when his contract expires. Injuries have limited his impact, although the Spain international brings valuable experience to a midfielder now lacking it. The Saudi Pro League has poached a number of players from Anfield in recent months, and this could also be a future destination for Thiago.
