The list of players available as free agents in the summer of 2022 is full of world-class talent. In fact, it might be correct to state that there have never been so many top players available on a free transfer before. This means that top European clubs will have to start negotiations with their superstars to avoid losing them on a free transfer. 

This will be different from the 2021 summer, which was characterized by big money moves. You can click here to read more about some headline transfers of 2020. So, who are these superstars who could be available on a free transfer in the summer?

The Out-Of-Contract XI

Andre Onana

Onana will be leaving Ajax next summer after spending the past year out of play because of a doping ban. Nevertheless, the Cameroon goalie is still regarded as a top-rated shot-stopper. 

He was among the key players that steered Ajax to the Champions League semi-finals in 2019. He has been linked with European clubs Inter Milan and Arsenal. 

Cesar Azpilicueta

The Chelsea captain has been a loyal servant for his club, and it is unlikely they will let him go for free. However, as things stand, that remains the likely scenario. 

Thomas Tuchel has utilized him as both centre-back and left wing-back. He was Chelsea’s captain when they lifted last year’s Champions League. In this regard, Tuchel wouldn’t want to lose Azpilicueta’s leadership, experience, and versatility. 

James Tarkowski

It is rare to find a centre-back capped by England is available for free while at the peak of their career. However, this is the situation with Tarkowski. He has been a key player for Burnley’s success in the EPL. 

He joined Burnley from Brentford in 2016 and has established himself as a no-nonsense defender. There is a long list of suitors for Tarkowski, and at 28, he still has several years to offer his new club. 

Antonio Rudiger

Rudiger has established himself as one of the best center-backs in the Premier League. Thanks to Thomas Tuchel, Rudiger’s career seems revived. He even received accolades from Rio Ferdinand, one of the greatest defenders the EPL has seen. 

The German defender’s contract with Chelsea expires next summer despite his performances. Moreover, he is likely to see out his contract and go on a free transfer to Bayern Munich. 

Serge Aurier

Aurier has not realized his full potential at Tottenham. However, he was part of the team that reached the 2019 Champions League final. Tottenham terminated his contract last summer, and he joined Villareal on a one-year deal. He will be available for free next summer. 

Paul Pogba

When Pogba is on top form, he is arguably the best-attacking midfielder in the world. He has been a critical member of Manchester United’s squad. 

Ole Gunnar Solkjaer acknowledged his importance by sometimes playing him out of position to include him in the team. However, Pogba has always been pushing for a move out of the club. At the moment, the odds are on him returning to Turin or joining Real Madrid. 

Pedri

Pedri is one of the biggest talents to emerge from Barcelona’s La Masia academy. He played 72 games last season as he was an important player in Ronald Koeman’s squad. 

He has also been a key player for Luis Enrique in the Spanish national team. Pedri is just 18 but is already considered one of the best midfielders in Europe. His contract expires in the summer, and fans will be watching to see if he is in Xavi’s plans. 

Franck Kessie

Frank Kessie is just 24 but has established himself as a top player for AC Milan. He has scored 14 goals and played a key role as AC Milan finished second in Serie A. However, he will be out of contract in the summer, and many top clubs are following his situation closely. 

Kylian Mbappe

Mbappe is regarded as football’s next superstar. He is set to leave French giants PSG after being there for five years. He has won three Ligue 1 titles and scored over 130 goals. 

PSG thought bringing Messi to Paris would change his mind, but the player has requested to leave in the summer. His most likely destination is Real Madrid. 

Luis Suarez

Suarez is 34, but he is still one of the most lethal strikers in the world. His contract with Atletico Madrid expires in the summer. He helped Diego Simeone’s men to their first La Liga title in seven years. Suarez would not lack suitors when his time with Atleti comes to an end. 

Lorenzo Insigne

Napoli have not made promising progress in their contract talks with their captain Lorenzo Insigne. Moreover, the Italian attacker has established himself as a top player globally. He has managed two goals and three assists this season. If Napoli fails to convince him, there will be many clubs fighting for his signature.