Free Agents Premier League Clubs Can Still Sign Despite Window Closing

The summer transfer window for the 2025/26 Premier League season slammed shut on September 1, 2025, but the market for free agents remains open, offering clubs a chance to bolster their squads without the constraints of a transfer deadline. According to Premier League rules, players without a club can be signed at any time, provided they are registered by the relevant deadlines for league or cup competitions.

Josh Brownhill (Midfielder)

The midfielder was a cornerstone of Burnley’s promotion-winning campaign in the 2024-25 Championship season, contributing an impressive 18 goals and six assists in 46 appearances. His versatility as a box-to-box midfielder, combined with his goal-scoring prowess, made him a standout performer. However, after his contract expired, Brownhill rejected a move to Leicester City on deadline day and parted ways with the Clarets, citing the “right time” to embark on a new chapter.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Attacker)

His two-year stint at Besiktas was a mixed bag, with injuries once again hampering his progress. The 32-year-old made 50 appearances across two seasons, showing flashes of his dynamic midfield play but struggling with consistency due to fitness issues. His contract was terminated in August 2025, leaving him on the hunt for a new club.

Miralem Pjanic (Midfielder)

Now 35, Miralem Pjanic has had a nomadic career since leaving Barcelona in 2020, with spells at Besiktas, Sharjah in the UAE, and most recently CSKA Moscow. His time in Russia was brief, and he became a free agent after his contract ended in 2025. Once renowned for his pinpoint passing and set-piece expertise, Pjanic’s recent performances have been less consistent, but he remains determined to continue his career at a high level.

Hakim Ziyech (Attacker)

His brief spell at Al-Duhail in Qatar ended in May 2025 after just four months, following a loan stint at Galatasaray. The 32-year-old Moroccan, known for his flair and vision, struggled with injuries and inconsistent form, leading to a mutual contract termination. Previously a standout at Ajax and a fan favourite at Chelsea, Ziyech has been linked with a return to the Netherlands or a move to La Liga’s Elche, but no deal materialized before the window closed.

Jamal Lewis (Defender)

The 27-year-old left-back, was released by Newcastle United in the summer of 2025 after a challenging spell. He made limited appearances in the 2024-25 season, with injuries and competition from other defenders restricting his game time. His earlier performances at Norwich City, where he shone in the Championship, highlighted his potential as an attacking full-back.

Kurt Zouma (Defender)

The French defender spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Al-Orobah in Saudi Arabia after failing to secure a permanent move from West Ham. The 30-year-old French center-back, who previously played for Chelsea and Everton, was released by West Ham in 2025. Zouma’s physicality and Premier League experience—capped by a Europa Conference League title with West Ham—make him a notable free agent.