Manchester City defender John Stones has been linked with a move away from the club, and a move to MLS and the Saudi Pro League may be on the cards.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Saudi Pro League clubs and MLS outfits are looking to sign John Stones. It will be interesting to see if they can get the deal done in the coming months. The Englishman’s contract expires in the summer of 2026, and he could be signed on a free transfer at the end of the season. Alternatively, he could be signed on a bargain in January.
The English international, who cost Manchester City £47.5 million, has entered the twilight stages of his career, and he will not get regular opportunities at Manchester City anymore. He has fallen down the pecking order. It remains to be seen whether Stones decides to leave the club in January. He will be hoping to play more often at this stage of his career.
Where will Stones end up?
There is no doubt that John Stones is a quality player, and he could prove to be an excellent addition for Saudi Arabian or MLS clubs. He can operate as a central defender, a full-back, as well as a defensive midfielder. The 31-year-old has proven his quality in the Premier League over the years, and he has won major trophies with Manchester City.
Apart from his qualities as a player, the Englishman’s winning experience and leadership qualities could prove to be invaluable for any club hoping to sign him. Given his age and stature in the side right now, Stones could be signed for a reasonable amount of money.
It remains to be seen whether Manchester City are prepared to sanction his departure. The Premier League giants have enough quality and depth in the defensive unit, but they will certainly be wary of losing an important player in the middle of the season. Any move might have to wait until the summer transfer window.
Stones will not want to sit on the bench at Manchester City for the remainder of the season. If they fail to provide him with the necessary opportunities, he could look to consider his future when the transfer window reopens. It remains to be seen how the situation develops over the next few weeks.
There is no doubt that the English international is a quality player, and there will be no shortage of clubs hoping to sign him. However, recent reports have claimed that talks over a new deal with Manchester City are on the cards.