Transfer fees have skyrocketed over the past 10 to 20 years, with even pretty mediocre players costing eye-watering amounts of money.
It means clubs are always very attentive when transfer targets have release clauses written into their contracts, as they can secure a top-drawer signing without necessarily breaking the bank.
Usually, these clauses are not time-limited, but there are certain players that do have buyout fees with expiration dates.
Press the next page as we name five high-profile stars with release clauses that end before the summer transfer window closes.