Six Premier League titles 

©TM/IMAGO

John Stones is expected to bring down the curtain of his incredible Manchester City career at the end of the season. The 31-year-old has been integral to the phenomenal success of Pep Guardiola’s men over recent history since joining from Everton. Stones became the second most expensive defender in history when he travelled down the M62 in 2016 and he’s won absolutely everything for the Citizens. The England international has six Premier League titles to his name, two FA Cups, five League Cups and he lifted the Champions League in 2023.

Stones epitomised the modern centre-back with his almost unparalleled ability in possession that led him to playing a hybrid-role under Guardiola, which saw him progress into midfield. Injuries, however, have restricted Stones to just 35 appearances across the last two seasons and it’s understood that he will be allowed to depart when his contract expires this summer. Guardiola sidestepped Stones’ future when quizzed on it ahead of facing Burnley, stating: “The only thing I can say is that he’s [Stones] back for already two or three weeks. On Monday, he’s training with us. And this is the best news.” With the Englishman set to become a free agent next month, we’ve analysed four potential destinations.

Everton

An emotional return to Everton would make sense and there’s been speculation that the Toffees could move for Stones. David Moyes still has aspirations of leading Everton into Europe next season and Stones would be an experienced addition. His wage demands would be substantial but that would be offset by him joining on a free and it would cause no upheaval in terms of relocating.

Bayern Munich

There’s also been reports suggesting that Bayern could move for Stones, albeit not from the most prestigious sources. The Bundesliga giants have enjoyed great joy from signing Premier League players in recent seasons with Harry Kane, Luis Diaz and Michael Olise all excelling in Germany. Vincent Kompany played alongside Stones at Man City and is a huge admirer of the Englishman and Bayern could require another option at centre-back.

Como

Serie A seems the perfect fit for Stones’ skillset and numerous leading Italian clubs could move for the defender. Como, however, would be a fascinating destination and it would be a dream location for any player to call home. But from a football perspective, it makes perfect sense as Como are one of the richest clubs in Italy and they are in contention to qualify for the Champions League, even if the Europa League is more realistic.

Chelsea

Stones represents the complete opposite from Chelsea’s recruitment policy of signing young talents on long contracts. But it would be perhaps wise for them to slightly adapt their directive as the squad badly needs some experienced additions and centre-back would be a priority position. Chelsea have been linked with Stones in the past and it would make sense but his injury issues would be a major drawback.