John Stones, David Moyes
(Credit: Imago)
Goodison News speaking to Bryan King
Sun 8 June 2025 12:10, UK
Everton are showing ambition in the transfer market after years of stagnation.
The Freidkin Group have changed the landscape at Everton, who are now targeting higher-profile players as they look to build on a positive end of the season.
The main priority is to bring in forward players, given that only the three relegated teams scored fewer goals than Everton in this season’s Premier League, and the Toffees are already pursuing Villareal’s French striker Thierno Barry.
A move for Jack Grealish could also be on the cards, while Everton have also set their sights on his Manchester City teammate John Stones.
Everton, Jack Grealish
Grealish has been linked with a move to Everton (Credit: Imago)
Everton ready to re-sign Stones from Man City
Stones made his name with the Toffees, and could be in line for an emotional return to Everton nine years after leaving the club.
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As reported by the Sunday Mirror (1 June, page 70), Everton are ready to sound out the possibility of re-signing Stones. However, the 31-year-old would need to accept a wage cut to join the Toffees.
Season League Appearances European Appearances Cup Appearances Total Minutes Played
2024/25 11 6 3 1,134′
2023/24 16 6 5 1,769′
2022/23 23 8 3 1,848′
Stones’ appearances across all competitions in the last three seasons for Manchester City
Injuries have hampered Stones in recent years, but David Moyes remains a huge admirer of the centre-back, whom he brought to the club from Barnsley in 2013.
Former colleague of Moyes, Bryan King – speaking exclusively to Goodison News – believes that Stones could be convinced to rejoin the Blues if he is allowed to leave City.
“I’d imagine some players have been told their future lies away from Manchester City,” King said.
“Grealish is one of those players. Stones was sold by Everton to Man City, and I was involved in that deal. This could be a good move for Everton and a good way for Stones to finish his career.
“It will be up to Stones to decide whether he is willing to drop his wages. However, if he is allowed to leave City for a reasonable fee, it opens the door for Everton to make a decent offer.
“I’m sure he’d play every game; he and Jarrad Branthwaite could make a good pairing. Moyes was the man who brought him to Everton; perhaps he could convince him to re-sign.”
Stones has had an exceptional career since his move from Everton (Credit: Imago)
Branthwaite is still key for Everton’s defence
Stones would be a welcome addition to the Everton back line, but the future of Branthwaite remains the most pressing issue for the Merseyside club.
The 22-year-old has been subject to interest from both Chelsea and Tottenham, but the club must retain his services to give themselves the best chance to push on.
His reliability and youth make him the perfect player to build around, and any move for Stones should only be considered with Branthwaite firmly in the picture.
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