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John Stones free‑transfer chase widens

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2026-07-26 05:25 UTC → 2026-07-26 19:35 UTC · added removed

John Stones free‑transfer chase intensifies widens

In late July 2026, 2026 England centre‑back John Stones became a free agent after his Manchester City contract expired. Initial reports noted highlighted interest from Inter Milan and Chelsea as they evaluated signing him without a transfer fee. Inter saw him as a direct replacement for Cristian Akanji, while Chelsea, after missing out on Granit Xhaka, viewed him as a chance to add experience and leadership. A week later with Arsenal entered the picture, later monitoring Stones him as a potential acquisition, citing his previous work with former City assistant Michael Arte. Chelsea’s interest intensified, now described as a priority defensive signing. Further reporting on By 22 July highlighted that all three clubs are were weighing his recent extensive injury record – 339 days missed over the past three seasons – against his reputation. Wage demands are reported at around reputation and wage expectations of roughly €6.5 million per year plus bonuses, a figure that could strain budgets. The combined interest underscores a broader trend among top Premier League teams to secure seasoned international defenders on free transfers as they rebuild their squads. year. On 26 July, July Arsenal and Chelsea remained the only Premier League suitors, with both clubs emphasising emphasizing Stones’ leadership, ball‑playing ability and passing accuracy despite limited recent minutes. England manager Thomas Tuchel praised Stones described him as a “world‑class player” and noted praised his adaptability to winning cultures, while cultures. A day later Juventus entered the clubs continue race, moving from preliminary interest to balance serious negotiations. The Serie A club has made direct contact with Stones and his fitness concerns against representatives and is exploring contract terms, reportedly the most advanced of all parties. Juventus cite a need for a new central defender if they sell Gleison Bremer, while still acknowledging his potential impact recent injury‑limited season. Other clubs, including Inter, Napoli and several Premier League sides, continue to express interest, but Juventus now appears the most progressed in talks. The expanding pursuit underscores a broader trend among top clubs to secure experienced international defenders on free transfers as they reshape their defensive units. squads for the 2026‑27 campaign.

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  1. 2026-07-26 19:35 UTC John Stones free‑transfer chase widens
  2. 2026-07-26 05:25 UTC John Stones free‑transfer chase intensifies

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