Arsenal are considering a free transfer for John Stones as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his defence.
The transfer possibility has emerged following William Saliba’s back injury, although no formal talks have yet been reported.
Stones is available after leaving Manchester City when his contract expired. Chelsea are also reported to be interested in the 32-year-old England defender.
Arteta knows Stones well after spending three years working with him as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at City. The Arsenal manager also publicly praised the centre-back when the Gunners were linked with him in January 2020.
“John is a player I really like,” Arteta said. He added that Stones possessed many of the attributes he wanted from a central defender. Arteta denied Arsenal were interested at the time, but the club’s circumstances have since changed. The Standard has revisited Arteta’s verdict as the Gunners assess their options.
Saliba has decided against undergoing surgery but is still expected to miss several months. ReadArsenal recently covered the latest William Saliba injury update, which could influence Arsenal’s remaining transfer business.
Why the John Stones to Arsenal transfer appeals
Stones already understands the positional football Arteta introduced at Arsenal. He is comfortable defending centrally and can move into midfield when his team has possession.
His experience would also allow him to settle quickly. Arsenal need immediate cover for Saliba rather than another defender who requires a long development period.
The main concern is Stones’ fitness record. Injuries restricted his involvement during his final seasons at Manchester City, so Arsenal would need to assess whether he can handle regular football.
A short-term contract could limit the financial risk. Signing Stones without a transfer fee would also allow Arsenal to retain funds for their other summer targets.
The John Stones to Arsenal transfer remains under consideration rather than close to completion. However, Arteta’s existing relationship with the defender could make the free agent an appealing solution.
