John Stones David Moyes
John Stones David Moyes
Everton need to step up their recruitment if they are to have a squad ready for the new season.
There have been no fewer than eight departures this summer, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin leading the list of Everton exits.
The Toffees have made significant strides in the transfer market by signing Thierno Barry, Carlos Alcaraz, and Mark Travers, but more are needed.
However, there is a void at centre back, and John Stones has been linked with a phenomenal return to Merseyside.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin Everton
Calvert-Lewin is seeking a new challenge (Credit: Imago)
Stones can leave Man City as Pep Guardiola makes demands
Stones would have to take a pay cut if he were to re-join Everton, with the door open for the Toffees to make an offer.
The 31-year-old left the North West club in 2016 for £47.5million and has since gone on to make 277 appearances for City.
During his time at the Etihad Stadium, the defender has won six Premier League titles as well as the Champions League.
However, with Guardiola wanting a trimmed-down squad, Stones is a player who could leave the Citizens this summer.
Indeed, the centre back is one of several players who could leave even if they wish to stay, according to The Athletic (15 July).
Last season, the England international made just 11 Premier League appearances, with six of those coming as starts.
The former Toffee has endured problems with injury, meaning his impact has diminished in Manchester.
John Stones Everton
Stones did not play much last season (Credit: Imago)
Stones worth the risk for Everton
While the Toffees were touted with making a marquee signing this summer, that narrative is yet to unfold.
Kyle Walker was a reported target, but has since made the surprising move to newly promoted Burnley.
Of course, Jack Grealish’s future is still up in the air and he could still move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
However, Stones is the big signing Everton should be making, considering their current options at centre back.
Moyes has Jarrad Branthwaite, James Tarkowski, and Michael Keane, but three centre-backs are not enough, given recent injury worries of their own.
Stones would be an upgrade on Keane and Tarkowski and could form a formidable partnership with Branthwaite.
Of course, there will be doubters, given Stones’ injury record, but a short-term contract would allow him to prove his fitness.
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