John Stones is in advanced talks to join Inter Milan on a free transfer after leaving Manchester City at the end of June, with the Serie A champions now leading the race for the England defender.
The 32-year-old became available when his City contract expired while he was away with England at the World Cup. That made him one of the most notable free agents on the market, and it quickly attracted attention from several major clubs.
Inter Milan move ahead in the race
Inter Milan are understood to be the club making the strongest push at this stage, with a two-year contract reported to be on the table. Chelsea and Juventus were also among the sides showing interest, but the current talks suggest Inter are best placed to get the deal done.
For Stones, the appeal is clear. He is a Premier League and Champions League winner with Manchester City, and his record at the club underlines why he remains in demand. Across his spell in Manchester, he made 295 appearances and won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups and three Community Shields.
A major career move after Manchester City
Stones joined Manchester City from Everton in 2016 for £47.5m, and his departure brings to an end a long and highly successful stay in England. He also has 93 international caps, adding to his profile as one of the most experienced defenders available in Europe.
The next stage now is straightforward: if the talks continue to progress, Inter Milan could soon secure one of the most established free-transfer opportunities of the summer. For Manchester City, it would mark the exit of a player who played a major role in one of the club's most successful eras.
