started · updated
Juventus intensify chase for free‑agent defender John Stones
John Stones, the 32‑year‑old England centre‑back, became a free agent after his contract with Manchester City expired. Juventus have opened official contacts with Stones and his representatives to discuss a possible signing, aiming to bring him in on a free transfer. The club’s interest, reported by journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, places them in direct competition with Premier League sides Arsenal and Chelsea, which are also linked to the defender.
In parallel, Juventus are evaluating Colombian defender Jhon Lucumi as an alternative option. Bologna’s asking price for Lucumi is reported around €25‑28 million, a valuation that adds complexity to Juventus’ transfer plans. The pursuit of Stones follows Juventus’ need to reinforce their defence after the possible departure of Gleison Bremer. Stones’ recent performances for England at the 2026 World Cup, where the team finished third, add to his appeal despite concerns about matching his former Manchester City wages.
Overall, Juventus’ move represents a significant entry in the summer transfer market, potentially shaping the defensive line‑up for the upcoming Serie A season.
Entities
Bologna FC · England national football team · Galatasaray SK · Gianluca Di Marzio · Gleison Bremer · Inter Milan · Jhon Lucumi · John Stones · Juventus FC · Juventus Football Club · Manchester City · Manchester City FC
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 9 SOURCES] John Stones is a free‑agent after his contract with Manchester City ended. www.tuttojuve.com · www.spaziointer.it · www.juventusnews24.com · www.liberoquotidiano.it · www.tuttomercatoweb.com · +3 more
- [● 6 SOURCES] Juventus faces competition from Inter for John Stones. www.spaziointer.it · www.juventusnews24.com · www.tuttojuve.com · football-italia.net · www.vetogate.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Jhon Lucumi is a 28‑year‑old Colombian defender currently under contract with Bologna. www.bolognasportnews.it
- [● 3 SOURCES] Napoli have expressed concrete interest in signing Jhon Lucumi. www.bolognasportnews.it
- [● 2 SOURCES] Bologna’s asking price for Lucumi is reported as €28 million, and a prior release‑clause is said to have expired. www.cumhuriyet.com.tr
- [● 7 SOURCES] Juventus aim to acquire John Stones on a zero‑cost (free) basis. www.liberoquotidiano.it · www.tuttojuve.com · www.juventusnews24.com · football-italia.net · www.spaziointer.it · +1 more
- [● 8 SOURCES] Juventus have initiated contact with John Stones. www.spaziointer.it · www.tuttojuve.com · www.juventusnews24.com · www.liberoquotidiano.it · www.tuttomercatoweb.com · +2 more
- [● 3 SOURCES] Galatasaray are preparing a €21‑22 million transfer offer for Lucumi and a four‑year contract with a €3 million annual salary. www.cumhuriyet.com.tr · www.karar.com · www.marasgundem.com.tr
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Bologna's asking price for Jhon Lucumi is reported as €25 million. www.bolognasportnews.it
- [● 6 SOURCES] Negotiations include discussions of personal terms and a high wage package for John Stones. www.tuttojuve.com · www.juventusnews24.com · football-italia.net · www.spaziointer.it · www.vetogate.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] John Stones was part of the England squad that finished third at the 2026 World Cup. www.tuttojuve.com · www.spaziointer.it · www.vetogate.com
- [● 6 SOURCES] Juventus accelerated contact with John Stones in July 2026, making first official approaches. www.tuttojuve.com · www.juventusnews24.com · football-italia.net · www.spaziointer.it · www.vetogate.com