Inter join Everton in race for departing Man City defender John Stones
Quick summary
Inter Milan have entered the race to sign John Stones, who is set to leave Manchester City on a free transfer, joining Everton in pursuit of the experienced defender.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceInter have entered the race for John Stones, with the England international available on a free transfer following his departure from Manchester City and understood to have attracted interest from both Everton and Italian clubs including Inter and Napoli.
According to German outlet BILD, FCInter1908 , the defender’s availability as a free agent is significant for Inter, who are in urgent need of defensive reinforcements following the exits of Francesco Acerbi and Stefan de Vrij.
The club have been pursuing multiple centre-back targets this summer, with the Oumar Solet trail having cooled in recent weeks – making him an attractive cost-free alternative of considerable Premier League and international pedigree.
TAMPA, FLORIDA – JUNE 06: John Stones of England looks on prior to the international friendly match between England and New Zealand at Raymond James Stadium on June 06, 2026 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images) Inter open to signing England veteran Stones At 32, Stones brings Champions League experience and a decade of top-level football to any interested party, though questions about his fitness record, he has missed significant periods through injury in recent seasons, will feature in any club’s assessment.
For Inter, the combination of quality and zero transfer fee makes the enquiry entirely logical, but for now, the player remains committed to England at the World Cup.
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What happened
Inter Milan have reportedly entered the competition to sign John Stones, the 30-year-old English defender who is departing Manchester City. Everton have already been linked with a move for Stones, and Inter's entry creates a bidding situation for the free agent. Stones has won six Premier League titles and the Champions League during his time at the Etihad but has fallen out of favor in recent seasons due to injuries and competition for places. With his contract expiring, multiple clubs across Europe are now monitoring his availability.
Chance analysis
Stones offers top-level experience and tactical versatility, having played under Pep Guardiola in a hybrid center-back/inverted full-back role. For Inter, his addition would provide defensive depth and big-game know-how, while Everton would benefit from a homegrown Premier League-proven defender. The fact that multiple clubs are circling suggests Stones's wage demands or fitness concerns may be limiting his options, which could push him toward a club offering regular first-team football.
Manchester City lose an experienced squad player on a free transfer, while Inter and Everton gain a potential defensive reinforcement pending negotiations.
Monitor Stones's next club destination as it affects his match availability and potential role in upcoming fixtures for either Inter or Everton.