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Arsenal are reportedly considering a move for John Stones, who is currently a free agent after his contract with Manchester City expired. According to The Sun, the Gunners view Stones as a short-term, economically viable solution to address William Saliba's severe injury.
The 25-year-old French defender, who aggravated a long-standing back problem during the World Cup semi-final against Spain, is facing a four to five-month layoff.
With Saliba not expected back until late 2026 or even 2027, the Premier League champions have turned their attention to the 32-year-old Stones. Manager Mikel Arteta is well-acquainted with the England international, having worked with him at City when the Spaniard was Pep Guardiola's assistant.
However, Stones himself has been plagued by injuries, missing 24 games last season and 34 the season prior. This injury record was a primary factor in City's decision not to renew his contract. Despite this, after a hesitant start to the World Cup, he performed well in the knockout stages, starting against Norway, where he was tasked with marking Erling Haaland, and in the semi-final clash with Argentina.
Stones remains one of the most valuable players still without a club. You can find a gallery of other prominent free agents this summer below:
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