Free Agents are some of the most sought-after players when the transfer market opens since there is no transfer fee involved when trying to sign these players. As the conventional calendar goes, most players’ contracts end on June 30, making them Free Agents by default on July 1.
This summer, several players who are fast approaching the twilight years of their respective careers have entered free agency, with few top clubs interested in them. While they could still play at a lower level in Europe, some could benefit with a move abroad playing in the Major League Soccer (MLS).
Having said that, here are five European Free Agents who should move to the MLS.
5. Wissam Ben Yedder
One of the most consistent and prolific strikers in Ligue 1 history, 33-year-old Ben Yedder is now on his last legs in terms of his career. However, he still contributed at a respectable rate for former club AS Monaco last season. Ben Yedder made 34 appearances across competitions, scoring 20 goals and providing two assists.
Known for his two-footed ability and knack for making smart runs, the Frenchman could still add a lot of value to an MLS side should he choose to move. He has made over 500 appearances for AS Monaco, FC Toulouse and Sevilla, scoring 259 goals and providing 78 assists. A player with his experience could be a great mentor for young strikers in the USA.
4. David De Gea
The former Manchester United shot-stopper has been without a club since July 2023 and could be tempted with a move to the MLS should a good offer come in. De Gea has made 545 appearances for the Red Devils, keeping 190 clean sheets in the process and is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers the Premier League has ever seen.
However, a shift in the modern game catering more towards ball-playing ‘keepers forced him out of the league and De Gea has been without a club since. A move to the MLS to restart his career would be ideal.
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3. Memphis Depay
If any player’s name could be more suggestive of which country they should play in, it is Memphis Depay. The 30-year-old is without a club since his contract with Lyon expired on July 1, while he was on international duty with the Netherlands at Euro 2024.
Depay had a subpar season last time out, making 31 appearances across competitions but only managing nine goals and two assists. However, having represented the likes of Manchester United, Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and PSV Eindhoven, the Dutchman could bring with him some much-needed top-level experience that the MLS is currently lacking.
2. Andre Gomes
The former Everton midfielder had a good start to life at Goodison Park but a leg break completely derailed his career in 2019 and Gomes failed to make a recovery to normal form since.
A tall and imposing midfielder, Andre Gomes is also skilled with carrying and passing the ball and could be an important asset for a team looking to win the MLS. He has made a total of 355 appearances for his clubs, scoring 31 goals and providing 29 assists. Gomes’ addition to any side would instantly elevate their level, but concerns on his ability to remain fit could probably deter some teams.
1. Anthony Martial
Once regarded as the next coming of France legend Thierry Henry, Martial’s descent into oblivion has been one of the most saddening stories in modern football. He joined Manchester United in 2015 for a fee that could rise to £57.6 million, which seemed mighty hefty for a teenager. However, his debut goal against Liverpool seemed to make people forget about his cost.
Injuries and a consistent change of managers and systems at the club hampered Martial’s progress and he showed his brilliance in phases when the club was doing well. However, the 28-year-old’s unfulfilled potential could still use an outlet and the MLS could be the ideal destination.
Anthony Martial made 317 appearances for the Red Devils, scoring 90 goals and providing 47 assists. He still has time on his hands to revive his career but the motivation will have to come from within.