The 10 Greatest Free Transfers in Football – Ranked
In an era where transfer fees often dominate headlines, free transfers can sometimes feel like an afterthought. But when the right player joins the right club at the right time — without a single euro exchanged — the impact can be just as seismic. Whether driven by contract disputes, shifting ambitions, or the twilight of a legendary career, these free agent moves proved monumental.
Here are the 10 greatest free transfers in football history involving players aged 32 or older — ranked not by market value, but by their significance, legacy, and shock factor.
10. Diego Godín
In the summer of 2019, Diego Godín left Atlético Madrid after nearly a decade of defensive dominance and signed with Inter Milan on a free transfer. Though past his prime, the Uruguayan center-back added grit and experience to Antonio Conte’s squad and played a key role in their run to the Europa League final.
9. Edinson Cavani
Cavani joined Manchester United for free in 2020 after parting ways with Paris Saint-Germain. His tireless work rate, movement in the box, and clutch goals made him an immediate fan favorite at Old Trafford and a valuable mentor for United’s younger attackers.
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8. Willian
In a surprise 2020 switch, Willian moved from Chelsea to Arsenal on a free transfer. While expectations were high, the Brazilian winger struggled to make a consistent impact at the Emirates and departed the club after just one season, though the deal remained one of the most high-profile in the league.
7. Samuel Eto’o
After a stint in Russia with Anzhi Makhachkala, Samuel Eto’o signed for Chelsea in 2013 as a free agent. Despite being in the twilight of his career, the Cameroonian legend still delivered on big occasions, including a memorable hat-trick against Manchester United.
6. Ilkay Gündoğan
In 2023, Ilkay Gündoğan left Manchester City after captaining them to a historic treble and joined FC Barcelona on a free transfer. His arrival brought calm, intelligence, and leadership to Barça’s midfield — perfectly suited to Xavi’s tactical setup.
5. Kevin De Bruyne
In 2025, Kevin De Bruyne brought his glittering Manchester City career to a close by moving on a free transfer. While his destination remains unconfirmed, the end of his City chapter marks one of the most significant free-agent exits in Premier League history.
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4. Lionel Messi
After two seasons in Paris, Lionel Messi left PSG in 2023 and signed with Inter Miami in MLS. The Argentine superstar instantly elevated the league's profile, drew record crowds, and made Inter Miami a global brand almost overnight.
3. Karim Benzema
In 2023, fresh off a Ballon d’Or win and a legendary Real Madrid career, Karim Benzema joined Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia on a free transfer. The move not only signaled the growth of the Saudi Pro League but also drew global eyes to Benzema’s next chapter.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo shocked the world when he left Manchester United in 2022 and signed with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia. The move became the catalyst for a wave of high-profile players heading to the Middle East, transforming the Saudi league into a rising power.
1. Lionel Messi
In 2021, Lionel Messi’s emotional exit from Barcelona — the club he called home for over 20 years — led to his free transfer to Paris Saint-Germain. The move stunned the football world and brought together an all-star trio with Neymar and Mbappé in Paris.
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