John Stones poised to join Inter after World Cup displays
John Stones is close to completing a move to Inter after leaving Manchester City on a free transfer in June. The 32-year-old defender's performances for England at the World Cup have strengthened Inter's position in the race for his signature.
Interest in Stones from both Inter and Juventus emerged before the tournament and has carried through the summer. Stones left Manchester City in June and has been available as a free agent since. His form for England during their run to the semi-finals is being credited with increasing his appeal to clubs in Italy. Discussions between the player and clubs have intensified in the days following England's exit from the competition.
Sources indicate Inter are closing in on signing Stones, who has been a regular figure in England squads and was a key part of their World Cup campaign. The club that wear the Nerazzurri colours had been tracking him prior to the tournament and have moved to the front of the queue. Juventus remained a rival suitor during the build-up to the World Cup, but Inter now appear to hold the advantage.
The defender, who departed Manchester City at the end of the season, is being pursued on a free transfer, a factor that has heightened interest from top European sides. That availability after his exit in June means clubs can negotiate without a transfer fee, simplifying some aspects of any deal. Inter's intention to add an experienced centre-back aligns with their reported interest in Stones throughout the summer.
Stones' displays for England across the tournament are widely viewed as a catalyst for the current momentum behind a move to Italy. His performances helped England reach the latter stages, with his form drawing attention from potential suitors. Clubs monitoring the free-agent market were encouraged by his World Cup showing and the consistency he demonstrated in the knockout rounds.
Commenting on his future options, Stones said: ‘I still feel I have so much to give to a club’. That remark has been cited in coverage of his post-Manchester City plans and underlines his readiness to commit to a new team. His statement has added to speculation about where he will continue his club career.
With negotiations reported to be advanced, Inter are understood to be leading efforts to recruit Stones following his World Cup performances. Any official confirmation will come from the parties involved, but for now the signs point to the 32-year-old defender heading to Serie A after a summer of sustained interest.