Free agent defender attracts interest from former colleagues
John Stones left Manchester City this summer when his contract expired, ending a ten-year stay at the Etihad that brought six Premier League titles, the Champions League and a collection of domestic cups. He is now a free agent. And he has not been short of phone calls.
Arsenal are exploring the possibility of signing the 32-year-old. Mikel Arteta worked with Stones during his time as Pep Guardiola's assistant, so the connection is there. The need at the Emirates has become more pressing since William Saliba suffered a back injury during France's World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain — an issue that has prompted Arsenal to assess the market for defensive cover ahead of their Premier League title defence.
But Arsenal are not alone.
Chelsea have also been cited as a potential destination. Xabi Alonso, now in charge at Stamford Bridge, is understood to have considered a move for the defender as the club continues its squad reshape under the new manager. Stones played a significant role in England's run to the World Cup semi-finals this summer, so his stock has not dipped despite entering the final phase of his career.
For a player currently without a club, the options are decent. Two managers who know exactly what he offers — Arteta from close quarters in Manchester, Alonso presumably from a distance — are weighing up whether to bring him in. The decision now rests with Stones.