Representatives for John Stones have proposed the former Manchester City defender to Inter Milan, though the Serie A club appear reluctant to pursue the deal despite needing defensive reinforcements this summer.
The England international became a free agent in June after a decade at the Etihad Stadium, where he established himself as a key figure under Pep Guardiola. During his time in Manchester, Stones accumulated 257 Premier League appearances and featured in 62 Champions League matches. He turned 32 in May, placing him at a career juncture where securing a long-term contract may prove challenging.
Inter prioritise alternative targets
Inter Milan require at least one new centre-back following the confirmed departures of Stefan de Vrij and Francesco Acerbi, whose contracts expired at the end of last season. Despite this clear need for defensive reinforcements, the Nerazzurri do not seem eager to sign the former England international.
Multiple Italian outlets including Calciomercato, Tuttomercatoweb and FCInterNews report that Stones’ agents have contacted the Milan club to propose their client as a viable option. However, Inter are currently focused on securing Trevoh Chalobah from Chelsea. The London club have set an asking price of €30 million plus €5m in add-ons for the England defender, with Como also competing for his signature.
Serie A alternatives and financial demands
Should Inter decline to advance negotiations, Stones’ camp have already sounded out alternative destinations within Italy. His representatives have also approached Napoli and Juventus regarding a potential free transfer.
The defender is prepared to accept a significant reduction on the €10 million annual salary he commanded at Manchester City. However, his contractual expectations may still deter potential employers. Stones is reportedly seeking a two-year agreement with an option for a third season, terms that Italian clubs appear reluctant to offer a player in his early thirties.
With the transfer window remaining open across Europe’s major leagues, Stones continues to assess his options. The coming weeks will determine whether any of the approached Serie A sides reconsider their position or if the former City centre-back must look to alternative markets to extend his career at the highest level.