Arsenal eye free transfer for John Stones to cover injured William Saliba

Centre‑back William Saliba suffered a back injury in France’s World Cup semi‑final loss to Spain and is expected to miss up to five months of the upcoming Premier League season. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who previously worked with John Stones at Manchester City, is evaluating the free‑agent defender as a short‑term solution. Stones, 32, left Manchester City after his contract expired and is available on a free transfer. Reports suggest Arsenal could offer a reduced wage—around £120,000 per week versus the £250,000 he earned at City—and a brief contract to provide experienced cover. The club’s other defensive options, such as Ezri Konsa and the likes of Jurrien Timber or Ben White, face fitness concerns, increasing the urgency of securing a reliable centre‑back. While other Premier League sides have also shown interest, Arsenal’s priority is to stabilise the back line before the season starts on 21 August.