David Moyes will want the saga of Jarrad Branthwaite leaving or staying to be over as a replacement will need to be lined up.
Branthwaite is set to be the subject of interest for what looks like the majority of the window in what could turn out to be a frustrating summer for Moyes.
With Tottenham and Chelsea interested in Branthwaite, the prospect of Champions League football for the 22-year-old might be just too good to turn down.
The hope is that this won’t be the case, and The Friedkin Group will no doubt see the centre-back as a big part of their future plans.
If he stays, it’s a major boost for Everton, and they could only strengthen with John Stones this summer.
Photo by Alex Livesey - Danehouse/Getty Images
Photo by Alex Livesey – Danehouse/Getty Images
The chances of Everton signing John Stones this window
With the prospect of Branthwaite leaving, Moyes shouldn’t let this affect the purchase of Stones.
Everton want Stones long-term as it’s not a case of a short emotional reunion, and it’s clear why after his success at Man City.
He’s had some excellent performances over in Manchester, but it was City’s Champions League triumph where the 31-year-old really showed his quality during his tenure.
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Of course, Evertonians knew of this quality, and it brings reason why Everton fans think Stones is still ‘world-class’.
Well, speaking on the All Together Now podcast, journalist Alan Myers has now revealed the chances of the return for Stones coming to fruition.
“I could see the logic in it,” Myers said.
“I know Moyes likes him. I can see a pathway there that’s for sure.”
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Now could be the perfect time for Stones to sign for Everton
The defender’s future isn’t set in stone, as Guardiola is still debating selling Stones, but there is every reason why it can happen this summer.
This is due to the City boss making it clear he wants a major clear-out at Man City, which could even see Jack Grealish join Everton.
But Stones re-joining seems the most feasible, taking into account wages, relationship with Moyes and the club, it looks very likely.
More importantly though, the Toffees could get a fully-fit Stones going into the new campaign as the 31-year-old has struggled this season, but when he’s played still showed how good he really is.
Stones’ statistics for City in 24/25 Premier League
Games played 11
Goals 2
Pass accuracy % 91.3%
Duels won % 69.2%
Aerial duels won % 57.1%
With Stones now recovering over the summer, his future will be considered, but by the time he arrives at Bramley-Moore Dock, he could be fit as a fiddle.