Chelsea interested in former Manchester City defender John Stones
Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing England defender John Stones, who recently became a free agent after his contract with Manchester City expired. The 32-year-old defender is also being considered by Inter Milan, following his departure from City at the end of June.
Stones’ availability has attracted attention from several clubs, including Arsenal, who are also said to be keen on bolstering their defensive options. The defender’s stock has reportedly risen after his performances for the Three Lions at the World Cup, despite playing sparingly last season for Manchester City.
Chelsea’s defensive targets and potential departures
Chelsea are actively pursuing defensive reinforcements and are in discussions to sign Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace. However, reports suggest that the 26-year-old French defender could command a fee that exceeds Chelsea’s valuation. The club is also assessing other options in the market, including Jacobo Ramon from Como.
To accommodate potential new arrivals, Chelsea are looking to sell some of their current central defenders. Trevoh Chalobah is reportedly in talks to join Como, while Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile are among the players available for transfer.
Stones’ career and recent transfer activity
John Stones made 295 appearances for Manchester City after joining the club from Everton in 2016. During his time with City, he contributed to the team winning several major titles, including six Premier League titles, the Champions League, two FA Cups, five League Cups, three Community Shields, the Club World Cup, and the Uefa Super Cup. He also has 93 international caps for England and was part of the squad that finished third at the World Cup.
This interest in Stones follows Chelsea’s recent acquisition of England midfielder Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for £117 million. Arsenal had also reportedly tracked Rogers, but Chelsea secured the deal. Additionally, Chelsea are in talks with Aston Villa regarding a potential loan move for Argentina winger Alejandro Garnacho.
The pursuit of Stones could mark another instance of Chelsea and Arsenal competing for the same player this summer, following their interest in Morgan Rogers.
Stones brings a wealth of Premier League experience, accumulated over a decade of playing in England’s top flight.
His pedigree has made him a target for several clubs across England and Europe.
The reports of Arsenal’s interest are partly driven by concerns over William Saliba, who is facing a significant period out due to a back injury sustained at the World Cup.
Chelsea’s keenness to add experienced players to their squad aligns with their reported interest in Stones, who is seen as a ready-made option.
The club is actively working to reshape its squad, with both incoming transfers and player sales being pursued simultaneously.
The recent signing of Morgan Rogers for £117 million indicates Chelsea’s willingness to invest in key targets.
Stones, at 32, offers a blend of experience and a proven track record of success at the highest level of club football.
His contract with Manchester City expired at the end of June, making him a free agent.
The defender’s performances for England at the World Cup have reportedly increased his appeal to potential suitors.
Chelsea’s ongoing discussions for Maxence Lacroix and Jacobo Ramon highlight their comprehensive search for defensive options.
The potential departures of Trevoh Chalobah, Axel Disasi, and Benoit Badiashile would create space for new defensive signings.
The focus on experienced players like Stones suggests a strategy to integrate proven talent into the squad.
The club’s transfer activities reflect a busy period as they aim to strengthen their team for the upcoming season.
The £117 million agreement for Morgan Rogers was announced on Tuesday evening.
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Source: bbc.com
