John Stones will be out of contract at Manchester City at the end of the season
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Manchester City are remaining tight-lipped regarding the future of England defender John Stones, amid growing speculation that he is set to depart the club when his contract expires this summer.
The 31-year-old has enjoyed a trophy-laden spell since his 2016 move from Everton to the Etihad Stadium, accumulating an impressive haul that includes a Champions League title, two FA Cups, and six Premier League crowns.
Stones is hoping to secure a seventh league triumph with Pep Guardiola’s side before his anticipated exit.
Reports surfaced ahead of Wednesday’s trip to Burnley suggesting the England international would leave at the end of the current campaign, with an official announcement potentially arriving next week.
City, who confirmed captain Bernardo Silva’s summer departure last Thursday, declined to comment when approached about Stones’ situation.
Man City are yet to confirm whether John Stones will be leaving the club this summer
Man City are yet to confirm whether John Stones will be leaving the club this summer (PA Wire)
When questioned about any clarity on Stones’ future, manager Pep Guardiola stated: "No. The only thing I can say is that he is back for already two, three weeks. Monday he was training with us and this is the best news."
Stones has been limited to just 15 appearances across all competitions this season due to various injury setbacks.
The central defender was named on the bench for Sunday’s crucial 2-1 victory against Arsenal, having recently recovered from a calf issue sustained during international duty last month.
Despite his injury concerns, England manager Thomas Tuchel remains a staunch admirer of Stones, describing the "world class" centre-back as having "credit in the bank" for World Cup selection.
Asked if he would make an exception for the City player’s lack of game time, Tuchel said last month: "I don’t know yet, but if you come to the World Cup you should be fit. So when he came (to camp), he was fit. He did not have a lot of minutes, but he has a level of game understanding.
“So the exception of the rule means that he does not start a lot. I can see that because I’m a big fan and I know what he brings to the team in terms of personality, attitude and quality game understanding."