Inter Milan have entered the race to sign John Stones on a free transfer following the defender’s departure from Manchester City. The Serie A club join Everton and Napoli in monitoring the 32-year-old, who is currently representing England at the World Cup ahead of a decision on his future.
Inter’s Defensive Overhaul
The Nerazzurri urgently require centre-back reinforcements after losing both Francesco Acerbi and Stefan de Vrij this summer. Inter have pursued multiple defensive targets during the current transfer window, but their interest in Oumar Solet has cooled in recent weeks. This shift makes Stones an attractive cost-free alternative, offering considerable Premier League and international pedigree without requiring a transfer fee.
At 32, Stones brings a decade of top-level experience including Champions League football. The combination of proven quality and zero transfer fee makes the enquiry entirely logical for Inter, providing a cost-effective solution for their backline concerns while adding elite-level tactical intelligence and distribution ability to their squad.
Fitness Concerns and Competition
However, any potential suitor must weigh his fitness history carefully. The defender has spent considerable time sidelined with fitness problems in recent seasons, raising questions about his durability for a demanding campaign across domestic and European competitions.
Everton could offer Premier League continuity and a return to his former club, while Inter provide a route into Italian football and European competition. The Toffees’ interest represents a potential homecoming for the Barnsley academy graduate, who previously spent four years at Goodison Park before his successful spell at Manchester City began.
For now, no deal appears imminent. Stones remains fully committed to England’s World Cup campaign, meaning any decision regarding his next club will likely wait until after the tournament concludes. Both Inter and Everton will continue their assessment while the player focuses on international duty, with the experienced defender set to evaluate his options once England’s involvement in the competition ends.