John Stones a Free Agent After Manchester City Exit, Linked with Chelsea and Arsenal
English center-back John Stones is a free agent after his contract with Manchester City expired in June 2026. The 32-year-old defender, who played a key role in England's World Cup semifinal run, is being linked with top European clubs. According to English journalist Simon Johnson of The Athletic, Chelsea, now managed by Xabi Alonso, has added Stones to their list of center-back targets and is willing to sign older players. Meanwhile, The Sun reports that Arsenal is considering Stones as a potential replacement if William Saliba's World Cup injury proves long-term. Stones started five of England's eight World Cup matches and was a fundamental part of Thomas Tuchel's defensive scheme. Any club signing him would acquire an experienced international defender at zero transfer cost, making him one of the summer's market bargains.
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