Three football legends set to leave clubs on a free in 2026

Carlo Garganese

• 15 Oct 2025 09:01 CDT
• 3 min read

News

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed three football legends who are likely to leave their clubs on a free transfer in 2026.

In his latest podcast on YouTube, Romano spent the show breaking down the futures of all the top players whose contracts are due to expire at the end of the current season.

Romano was positive that a number of stars on expiring deals could sign new contracts.

He said that Frenkie de Jong's new contract would soon be announced, while Dayot Upamecano and Serge Gnabry will soon sit down with Bayern Munich to discuss a renewal.

Antonio Rudiger, meanwhile, retains a good relationship with Real Madrid and will talk with the club in the new year.

However, Romano was less upbeat about three football legends.

David Alaba seems certain to leave Real Madrid on a Bosman, with Romano admitting he is very "pessimistic" about the chances of the Austria star signing a new deal after years of injury problems.

Robert Lewandowski also seems to probably be playing his last season at Camp Nou, although it is not completely certain just yet. Lewandowski wants to concentrate on his football until the new year and then review his options. But at the age of 37, it is probable he will leave.

And then there is Casemiro. Romano suggests that the Brazilian is more out than in as there have been no contract talks and none planned. With the Brazilian set to turn 34 he will probably be allowed to go but Romano says it is not completely certain, either, given his experience and leadership status.

Another player who is more out than in is Bayern's Leon Goretzka. Romano says the midfielder would like to stay but Bayern are wary of his salary and also would like to give more space to younger and newer players.

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