England Transfer XI: Stones and Carvajal Join Free Agent Lineup
With the Premier League on course to smash its spending record, it's worth reminding them that you don't always have to splash out on signings. Sometimes the best transfers cost nothing - well, bar a hefty a signing-on bonus. From Ruud Gullit to Chelsea and Sol Campbell to Arsenal, to James Milner to Liverpool and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Manchester United, the Premier League has seen its fair share of excellent free transfers down the years. So who could be next? There are plenty of stars from around the world who find themselves without a club, some of them more familiar to English sides than others. As the final month of the summer transfer window nears, let's build an XI of free agents.
What happened?
Former Manchester City and Nottingham Forest star Stefan Ortega looks the standout goalkeeper available on a free. Ex-Brighton shot-stopper Matthew Ryan is another looking for his next move, while former Aston Villa man Orjan Nyland will hope that his World Cup performances convince someone to come knocking.
Why it matters for England
John Stones was a somewhat surprise inclusion in the England squad after making just 38 appearances in his final two seasons with Manchester City, but he ended up starting both the quarter-finals and semi-finals in a show of faith from Thomas Tuchel. His experience and quality on the ball makes him an attractive prospect for clubs willing to take a risk on his dubious fitness, with Chelsea and Arsenal linked.
What comes next?
Recent form (last 5): 4W-0D-1L (WWLWW, most recent first); on a 2-game winning run. Last result: France 4-6 England (2026-07-18). Next fixture: vs Spain (at home, 2026-09-26).
Who else could join?
Franck Kessie knows all about getting a big move on a free transfer. The Ivorian moved to Barcelona after his contract with AC Milan expired in 2022, and he memorably scored the goal that won Xavi Hernandez's side the La Liga title in his one and only season. Kessie was then sold to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli, where he spent the past three seasons. But now he's without a club and tipped for a return to Italy with Juventus.
Transfer speculation
Leon Goretzka is another free agent with serious pedigree to offer. The German went to the World Cup with his country, but is now without a club. He's reportedly been linked with a move to Bayern Munich, but nothing has been confirmed.
What's next for England?
With the transfer window closing soon, it's time for England fans to start speculating about who could join their national team. Will it be John Stones, Dani Carvajal, or someone else entirely? Only time will tell.
