Free agents were the hot commodity of the past transfer market, and it’s have a similar forecast in the summer ahead. Because of the numerous economical challenges clubs have had to grapple with over the previous months, even the giants have pivoted in this direction to secure stars with expiring contracts.
Take Real Madrid, for example, who did wonders to land David Alaba — Man of the Match in his first Clasico against Barça — once his Bayern Munich contract expired. Whether it be Sergio Ramos or Gianluigi Donnarumma or Georginio Wijnaldum, Paris Saint-Germain have taken the same approach and have added many stars with strong championship pedigree to their formula of success. And all of this will continue in the months ahead.
Expect Paul Pogba, Antonio Rudiger, and, of course, Kylian Mbappé to headline the list of soon-to-be free agent stars if they don’t sign an extension before June 2022. But it’s not just star players you need to be paying attention to as there are plenty of “hidden” opportunities on the horizon. Here are five players to check out who can be the stars in the next market:
1. Jesus Corona, Porto
Tecatito Corona has been one of the stars at Porto, establishing himself as a high level winger over the years. The Mexican international can become an extremely interesting opportunity for potential suitors because he has no intention of renewing his contract with Porto before it expires. It’s worth noting that AC Milan and Sevilla had him on their radars over the past summer. Beware of surprises ahead.
2. Lorenzo Insigne, Napoli
The longtime Napoli captain sees his contract end in June 2022, and at the moment, there is still no agreement to renew it. Inter Milan expressed interest over the summer, but then chose to sign Argentine center forward Joaquin Correa from Lazio. Insigne, a European champion with Italy, has proven quality, technique and leadership at his disposal, which makes him an attractive target once this season ends. And it’s why many teams have his name on their wishlist, though Napoli have not given up on their pursuit to renew his contract.
3. Denis Zakaria, Borussia Mönchengladbach
Denis Zakaria, class of 1996, who plays as a midfielder but can be used as a defender, has been for some time on the wish list of many top clubs in Europe. With his Borussia Mönchengladbach contract set to expire in June, many clubs have been actively monitoring his situation. José Mourinho wants him at AS Roma, for example, and the idea for suitors to try and anticipate the deal as early as January. It’s also worth noting that Barcelona and two English clubs have also been kept in the loop of information.
4. Niklas Süle, Bayern Munich
The Bayern Munich giant is planning to leave the German club in order to embark on a new experience. Premier League clubs have already been informed for some time about Süle’s situation and have him as a big-name target on the transfer market. The 26-year-old center back stands to be an attractive option, and we soon might know more details about his situation as Bayern plan to talk to his agent again.
5. Boubacar Kamara, Olympique de Marseille
Many clubs are interested in this 22-year-old defensive midfielder, who is an extremely interesting target in the market, one that Bayern Munich have been following since he was 18. AC Milan have also long had him on their list. Marseille are still hoping to change that, but Kamara can be one of the surprises of the transfer market.