The best opportunities are yet to come... or not? We all know how crucial is timing in the transfer market, especially when contracts are set to expire in few months.
We also know very well how sometimes top clubs start planning for big signings one year in advance, but also how clubs react trying to keep their players. Keep an eye on these five situations as their contracts expire in June 2024.
Ousmane Dembele
His contract is always in the news. Yes, because one year ago Ousmane signed new deal at Barcelona after very long and difficult negotiations... but it was just for two years. And so the saga is on again now.
There's always interest in Ousmane, he's always been in the radar of people at Paris Saint-Germain but no official bids as of now. Into his current short-term deal there's an exit clause for €50m valid in July.
PSG keep observing his situation, but Barcelona are advancing in talks to extend his contract and they will really try to keep Ousmane at the club. Xavi loves him, he loves Xavi. And this relationship could be crucial to continue together.
Benjamin Pavard
Bayern expect Pavard to leave this summer. There's no agreement with Pavard to sign new deal at this stage and he's open to try new experience, especially if it's Premier League football.
He's in the list at Manchester City to replace Kyle Walker in case he joins Bayern, but there are more clubs interested. Pavard could be on the move this summer, he's one to watch.
Sofyan Amrabat
The star of the World Cup in Qatar is always on the list of top clubs, expected to leave Fiorentina. It's never easy to negotiate with the Italian club as they insist on €35m minimum fee for Sofyan, but there's no chance to extend his contract.
This is why things could happen this summer for Amrabat. It's true that there's interest from Saudi clubs but also from Spain (his favourite destination) and England, where he's in the list of Manchester United in case Fred leaves the club.
Alejandro Balde
Some English club, very important ones, tried to offer big salary to Balde in order to join them as free agent in June 2024.
In addition to this, Manchester City wanted to bid for Balde this summer but... no chance. Balde will stay at Barcelona, he has agreed to sign new long term deal and it will be completed soon.
The contract will be valid until June 2028. Untouchable for Barça, Xavi... and he loves the club.
Piotr Zielinski
Napoli have been approached by Al Ahli and Lazio for Piotr, one of the best midfielders in Serie A. But they're still in talks to extend his contract, trying some final attempts to make it happen.
Open situation, one to follow for sure because Premier League clubs are quiet now but can become receptive in case Piotr leaves on a free next summer. Napoli have been very clear with the player: new deal to be signed now, otherwise they'll be ready to sell him immediately.
