By Bilal Ahmed
England international John Stones has verbally agreed to join Inter Milan on a free transfer, according to reports. The former Manchester City defender is expected to finalize terms on a two-year deal with the Italian club. This development comes despite significant interest from Premier League clubs Chelsea and Arsenal, as well as contact from Juventus.
Stones’ representatives are currently working to finalize the contract with Inter Milan. The 32-year-old defender became a free agent after his contract with Manchester City expired. Inter Milan was aware of the strong competition for Stones’ signature and actively worked to secure the deal.
Interest from Premier League and Serie A
Both Chelsea and Arsenal had made approaches for Stones, with Arsenal’s interest reportedly linked to Mikel Arteta’s previous working relationship with the defender. Arsenal also needs defensive cover, particularly while William Saliba recovers from an injury. However, Stones’ decision now rests with him after considering all available options.
Juventus also entered negotiations with Stones’ camp over a potential free transfer, with discussions taking place this week. According to Fabrizio Romano, the England international is open to Italy as his next destination. While Napoli and Bayern Munich had also been associated with the defender, reports suggest that none had made a significant push to secure his services until recently.
The competition for Stones’ signature from two major Italian clubs, Inter Milan and Juventus, has increased the intensity of the transfer race. Supporters will be watching to see which project ultimately appeals most to the player, as his preference between remaining in the Premier League or experiencing Italian football will determine the outcome.
Stones’ Career and Fitness Concerns
During his decade-long tenure at Manchester City, Stones achieved multiple Premier League titles and other major trophies under the management of Pep Guardiola. His ability to play effectively in a possession-based system and contribute from the back makes him an attractive option for clubs across Europe. A move to Serie A would offer a new challenge for Stones after more than ten years in English football.
Despite making five appearances for England at the World Cup, questions have been raised regarding Stones’ fitness history. Last season, the 32-year-old was limited to only 439 Premier League minutes due to thigh, calf, and muscular injuries. In the campaign before that, he played only 547 minutes, which was also a disrupted season for him. The former Everton defender did not play more than 59 percent of Premier League minutes in any of his ten seasons at Manchester City.
Inter Milan is also reportedly interested in Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero, who is head coach Christian Chivu’s top defensive target. However, the cost of a potential deal for Romero is expected to be substantial. There is a possibility for Inter Milan to sign both Romero and Stones if Benjamin Pavard departs, but currently, Inter Milan is prioritizing Stones.
Juventus, on the other hand, is actively seeking reinforcements in central defense, especially if Gleison Bremer moves to Galatasaray. The Turin-based club has explored other options but has reportedly struggled to meet Bologna’s €25 million valuation for Jhon Lucumi. Official discussions between Juventus and Stones’ representatives are underway regarding personal terms, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.
Further updates from Fabrizio Romano are anticipated as talks continue this week.
What’s Next for Stones
The decision now rests with Stones, who has left Manchester City at the end of his contract. His choice between continuing in the Premier League or embarking on a new chapter in Italian football will determine his next move. The race for his signature remains open among several interested parties.
Stones played a key role for England during their 2026 World Cup campaign, where the national side secured third place.
Source: skysports.com
