These African stars without a club just weeks before the end of the summer transfer window

They have come close to the top and to the highest level in their careers. But currently, these African stars are free of any commitment. This is after the expiration of their various contracts last June.

Franck Kessié (Côte d'Ivoire)

Captain of the Elephants, Franck Kessié has not had a club since his contract ended at Al Ahli in Saudi Arabia. A return to Europe is being discussed for the Ivorian international midfielder. The 29-year-old has made returning to Serie A and signing with Juventus his priority. For Juve to finalize his arrival, the managers need to make room in midfield with the departure of Arthur Melo.

Yves Bissouma (Mali)

Yves Bissouma had a rather average last season with Tottenham, with injuries, disciplinary issues and less impressive performances. With his contract ending in June 2026, the Spurs have not decided to extend him. The Eagles captain is free of any commitment. He is still targeted by several clubs in France and Saudi Arabia.

According to information from Hasan Tüncel, Trabzonspor has withdrawn from the suitors for the Malian international midfielder due to his inappropriate lifestyle and risk of injuries.

Ismael Bennacer (Algeria)

Returning from a loan at AC Milan after a season at Dinamo Zagreb, Ismael Bennacer saw his contract terminated. Now without a club, the Algerian international midfielder is expected to get back on track in Qatar. The 28-year-old is reportedly close to joining Al Gharafa in the Qatar Stars League.

Riyad Mahrez (Algeria)

A very eventful summer for Riyad Mahrez. He was not extended by Al Ahli and decided to retire from international football with the Fennecs. Could the Algerian join Wydad Casablanca? That is the increasingly persistent rumor in recent days. According to information from Winwin, the idea of recruiting the ex-Manchester City player was put forward to the Moroccan club by an agent. As for Wydad's management, they have reportedly inquired about the financial terms needed to complete this big deal.

Krépin Diatta (Senegal)

After a great 2026 World Cup with Senegal, Krépin Diatta is struggling to find a new club. This summer, his contract came to an end with AS Monaco. Meanwhile, the right-back or right winger was listed among the targets of Olympique de Marseille. In the end, it did not happen.

Besides OM, Lyon, Paris FC, Schalke 04, Everton, Ipswich Town, and even Crystal Palace also followed the Senegalese international. All these clubs only made inquiries, nothing more. Since then, nothing new.

Bertrand Traoré (Burkina Faso)

Bertrand Traoré was not extended by Sunderland. Free, the Stallions’ captain is highly sought after on the transfer market. Several Championship clubs (English second division), including Middlesbrough and QPR, are interested in the Burkina Faso international right winger. That’s not all. FC Porto, as well as Danish and Saudi clubs, have their eyes on the former Ajax Amsterdam player.

Let's note that other African players like Wilfried Zaha (Côte d’Ivoire), Ghislain Konan (Côte d’Ivoire), Axel Tuanzebe (DRC), Abdoulaye Touré (Guinea)... are also free agents.