The transfer market is one of the most anticipated times for football fans, as it always provides the opportunity to see movements that shake the international football landscape. On many occasions, we have seen world-class superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi make unexpected decisions, such as leaving their usual teams and venturing into new countries.

FIFA rules establish that players with less than 6 months left on their contracts can negotiate freely with any team interested in their services. With the recent closure of the winter transfer window, many clubs are already rubbing their hands with several top players who will become 'free agents' in 2025.

Below, we present a list of the top 10 football players who will be out of contract - unless they renew - next year.

LIONEL MESSI

The Argentine star, one of the best players in the world, will be free at the end of December, when the football season ends in the United States. Messi has been named the Player of the Year at the FIFA Best Awards gala, although - let's be honest - he has had a discreet season in MLS.

At 38 years old when his contract with Inter Miami ends, the Rosario native will have the opportunity to sign with a club in his homeland - many speculate Newell’s Old Boys - or try to return to Europe, with an eye on the 2026 North America World Cup.

NEYMAR

Currently with Al-Hilal in the Saudi Arabian league, Brazil's top scorer has not had a great season. Just two months after his arrival, Neymar suffered an anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus injury, ruling him out for the rest of the season.

His injury and seemingly poor physical condition have caused annoyance among Saudi fans. Neymar has responded to his critics with a tough message towards them; however, despite rumors that he could return to Europe to shine again, many believe he could stay at Al-Hilal, where he is estimated to earn around $300 million over two years.

SON HEUNG-MIN

Tottenham's South Korean forward, Son Heung-Min, has taken on a leadership role in the English team following the departures of Harry Kane and Hugo Lloris.

He is currently the fourth highest scorer in the Premier League with 12 goals in 23 games; however, 'Sonny' will have to carefully consider his next career move as the contract extension he signed in 2021 (for four years) expires this year. Although Spurs have the option for an additional season, the South Korean will turn 33 in 2025.

ALPHONSO DAVIES

The Canadian gem, only 23 years old from Bayern Munich, is one of the three key players of the Bavarian team whose contract expires in 2025. A full-back with great qualities, speed, and an ability to attack and defend, with five Bundesliga titles and a Champions League in his record, he is one of the players who will be on the radar of top teams.

Real Madrid, one of the best clubs in the world, is the main candidate to bid for the defender. Davies' position is one where the maximum Champions League winner is weak; however, being a key piece in Thomas Tuchel's scheme, it seems unlikely that they will let him go easily.

KEVIN DE BRUYNE

De Bruyne, Manchester City midfielder, has not had a great time after suffering a hamstring injury in the first game of the season. However, on January 31st, he made his return and was able to assist in the 3-1 victory against Burnley.

Given his age (32) and injury history, it wouldn't be surprising if City started looking for a replacement for Kevin De Bruyne. Despite being a fundamental figure in Premier League dominance, the midfielder could seek new challenges starting in 2025.

MOHAMED SALAH

'The Pharaoh', who recently suffered an injury with the Egypt national team during AFCON 2023, is an undisputed starter at Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool; however, the 31-year-old forward has already been tempted by several clubs in the last summer transfer window.

Al Ittihad, a club that already has Karim Benzema in its squad, hopes to make an offer that quadruples his current salary, and although many expect him to continue leading the Reds, Klopp's departure next summer could make the Arab think about packing his bags and leaving Anfield.

JOSHUA KIMMICH

The 28-year-old pivot, who turns 28 on February 8th, is in his best form and looks set to be Bayern Munich's next captain alongside Manuel Neuer and Thomas Muller; however, the Bavarian club has not offered him a contract renewal.

Kimmich, considered one of the best midfielders today, could pack his bags in 2025 and land at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, who is looking for a player who can partner with Rodri in the middle of the field.

WARREN ZAIRE-EMERY

The 17-year-old midfielder is one of the gems to have come out of PSG's academy, to the extent that he is already the youngest player to be called up for the France national team since 1914.

Zaire-Emery is very versatile on the field, many have compared him to Jude Bellingham, and although PSG plans to offer him a contract to keep him in the future, many European clubs already have their eye on the young man born in Montreuil to sign him.

CONOR GALLAGHER

With Chelsea having a very irregular season, at risk of falling out of the top 10 in the Premier League again and without a head coach, Conor Gallagher is one of the few players who tend to stand out in the 'Blue' team.

At just 23 years old, Gallagher looks to be the future of English midfield. Although Chelsea fans would like him to stay longer, the London club has already offered the young man to Everton in the last transfer window.

THIAGO ALMADA

Winner of the World Cup in Qatar, alongside Lionel Messi, Thiago Almada is one of the promises of Argentine football and currently plays for MLS's Atlanta United.

Like Messi, Almada's contract expires in December - though in 2025 - and his good physical form has attracted several European clubs. The fact that he could become Atlanta's best sale ever could lead the club to provide many facilities for his departure.