Transfer Window 2025: Top Stars Whose Futures Are Uncertain

The 2025 transfer window is open, and several top footballers are facing uncertain futures. Find out who's staying and who's going.

The winter transfer window has officially kicked off in major European football leagues, and clubs are already eyeing top talent whose contracts are set to expire at the end of June 2025. This summer, several high-profile players, including Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, will be available for negotiation.

As the transfer window heats up, FC Bayern Munich is bracing for a potential shake-up. The German giants face the prospect of losing not only iconic players Thomas Muller and Manuel Neuer but also three key players in their prime: Joshua Kimmich, Leroy Sane, and Alphonso Davies. Kimmich, in particular, has reestablished himself as a leading figure since Vincent Kompany's arrival and is touted as the logical successor to Neuer as captain.

Joshua Kimmich's future at FC Bayern Munich is uncertain due to stalled contract negotiations and a history of criticism. The 28-year-old midfielder has been repeatedly linked to FC Barcelona in recent seasons, and the appointment of Hansi Flick, a known admirer of Kimmich, has only fueled speculation about a potential transfer.

While FC Bayern Munich is open to extending Joshua Kimmich's contract, the situation is more complicated for Leroy Sane and Alphonso Davies. Sane, despite his talent, remains a rotation player under Vincent Kompany, and the emergence of new signing Michael Olise has further intensified competition for his position. With Sane's salary expectations hovering around 20 million euros per season (£16.6m), the club may consider offloading him to ease their payroll burden.

Alphonso Davies' contract negotiations with Bayern have been ongoing for months, but a significant stumbling block remains – his salary demands. Davies' representatives are seeking a substantial increase, although it's unlikely to exceed the 20 million euro mark. If an agreement cannot be reached, Real Madrid is reportedly eager to capitalize on the situation and sign the Canadian international.

Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold: Liverpool's Contract Conundrum

Liverpool FC finds itself in a precarious situation similar to Bayern Munich's, with several key players' contracts set to expire in the summer. Despite their impressive form under new coach Arne Slot, the Premier League leaders face uncertainty regarding the future of their top talent.

The Reds boast arguably the world's best forward in Mohamed Salah, who has already reached nearly 40 goal contributions in competitive matches. In 2023, Liverpool reportedly rejected a staggering £125 million offer from Saudi Arabia for the “Egyptian King,” and with his contract now expiring, the club will stop at nothing to retain their most potent attacking threat.

Virgil van Dijk's Future Looks Secure

The situation regarding Virgil van Dijk's contract appears more promising. The Dutch international is once again performing at an elite level this season, and Liverpool have extended a contract offer to him. It is expected that the two parties will reach an agreement in the coming weeks. This new deal would likely be the last major contract of the 32-year-old's career.

Trent Alexander-Arnold's Future Hangs in the Balance

In contrast, the situation surrounding Trent Alexander-Arnold is more uncertain. As vice-captain and a homegrown talent, Alexander-Arnold is a beloved figure at Liverpool. The 26-year-old has expressed a desire to remain with his boyhood club, but the lure of Champions League winners Real Madrid has been tempting him for some time. If Alexander-Arnold were to leave, it would be a significant loss for Liverpool.

Heung-min Son's Tottenham Future Uncertain

Heung-min Son has evolved into a vital component of Tottenham Hotspur since his arrival in London in 2015. With an impressive tally of over 250 goals for Spurs, the South Korean has cemented his status as a club legend. However, his future beyond the summer remains uncertain.

Son's Contract Extension Clause Yet to be Activated

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed in November that Tottenham possessed a clause to extend Son's contract until 2026. Nevertheless, there has been no update on whether this option has been exercised. As a result, it is possible that Son will part ways with the club after a decade-long association, potentially signing a lucrative final contract with another team at the age of 32.

Kevin De Bruyne's Manchester City Future in Doubt

Kevin De Bruyne is currently at the center of the crisis unfolding at Manchester City. As one of the greatest players to don the City shirt, he enjoys immense goodwill from the fans. However, the current season has been a disappointing one for the Belgian midfielder.

De Bruyne's Contract Extension Unlikely Amidst Interest from Saudi Arabia and MLS

De Bruyne's campaign started reasonably well, but he has since found himself relegated to a rotation role in Pep Guardiola's team due to a combination of injuries and poor form. With his contract set to expire and his 34th birthday looming, an extension at Manchester City appears unlikely, particularly given the need for upheaval at the club. Instead, De Bruyne is attracting interest from PIF-supported clubs in Saudi Arabia, while a move to Major League Soccer (MLS) is also a viable option for the Belgian international.

Jonathan David Ready for a Big Move

While Alphonso Davies might stay put, the time has come for Jonathan David to take the leap to a top European club. The Canadian attacker has consistently performed at a high level for Lille and the national team over the years, but he has made significant strides this season.

David's Impressive Form Attracts Top Clubs

David's impressive record speaks for itself: six goals and three assists in 10 Champions League games, coupled with 11 goals in Ligue 1. This outstanding form has caught the attention of several Premier League heavyweights, including Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, and Aston Villa. Additionally, Italian giants Juventus and Inter, as well as Spanish side Atletico Madrid, are rumored to be vying for the striker's signature.

Jonathan Tah Set to Leave Bayer Leverkusen

Jonathan Tah, a cornerstone of Bayer Leverkusen's impressive 2023/24 campaign, is highly likely to depart the club. The centre-back was previously close to joining FC Bayern last summer, but with his contract now expiring, a transfer to FC Barcelona is reportedly a done deal, according to media sources.

Tah's Rise to Prominence Under Xabi Alonso

Under the guidance of Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen, the 28-year-old Jonathan Tah has finally fulfilled his potential over the past two seasons, establishing himself as one of Europe's most reliable and solid defenders. Tah's consistent performances also earned him a regular spot in the German national team during the European Championships, hosted in his home country. He now appears poised to take the next step in his career with a high-profile move to the European elite.

Neymar's Saudi Arabian Adventure Falls Short

Neymar remains one of the most marketable and renowned players globally, but his move to Saudi Arabia has not yielded the desired success. In 2023, the 32-year-old Brazilian left Paris Saint-Germain after a six-year stint to join Al Hilal. However, his time with the Saudi Arabian club was marred by injuries.

Neymar Attracts Interest from MLS Clubs Amidst Retirement Rumors

Neymar's spell with Al Hilal was cut short after just five games due to a cruciate ligament injury sustained while playing for Brazil in October 2023, followed by a lengthy thigh injury layoff. Although rumors of his impending retirement have been circulating, Neymar has caught the attention of Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs, particularly Inter Miami. The prospect of joining forces with former teammates Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and head coach Javier Mascherano at Inter Miami could be an enticing proposition for the Brazilian superstar.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo: Legendary Careers Nearing Their End

It is only fitting to acknowledge the remarkable careers of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who have dominated the football landscape for nearly two decades. At 37 and 39 years old, respectively, these iconic players are in the twilight of their careers. Messi recently expressed his sentiments to Spanish newspaper Marca, stating, “The end is near, and I'm savouring and appreciating every moment as much as possible.”

Messi's Future Remains Uncertain Amidst Impressive MLS Stint

Lionel Messi had a phenomenal MLS season with Inter Miami, scoring 21 goals in 22 competitive appearances. However, he was frequently hindered by minor injuries. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner's future remains uncertain, and when asked about his plans, he replied, “We'll see when the time comes. I don't want to say anything, I'm enjoying every day.” Messi's response leaves room for speculation about whether he will continue his illustrious career.

Lionel Messi's Contract Status in Contrast to Cristiano Ronaldo's

Unlike his longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi's contract with Inter Miami is set to expire at the end of 2025, aligning with the US professional league's calendar-year schedule.

Cristiano Ronaldo's Future Plans Take Shape

Cristiano Ronaldo has adapted remarkably well to life in Saudi Arabia, scoring an impressive 19 goals in 19 games this season. However, his future remains uncertain. According to The Mirror, Ronaldo has explicitly stated that his European football chapter is closed. As a result, it is plausible that he will extend his stay with Al-Nassr beyond his contract's expiration in June, despite not having won a major title with the club yet. Recently, the soon-to-be 40-year-old has ruled out pursuing a coaching role or club presidency, hinting at a potential foray into club ownership once his playing career concludes.