John Stones has verbally agreed to join Inter Milan on a free transfer, ending his ten-year association with Manchester City. The England defender, who turned 32 this year, is set to finalise a two-year contract with the Italian champions after his camp reached an agreement in principle with the Serie A side.
The move comes despite strong interest from Premier League clubs Arsenal and Chelsea, both of whom registered their desire to keep Stones in England. Juventus also made contact with the defender's representatives over the weekend, but Inter moved quickly to close the deal once it became clear there was a real battle brewing for his signature.
Inter head coach Christian Chivu has been targeting defensive reinforcements, with Spurs captain Cristian Romero his primary target. However, the cost of a Romero deal is expected to be prohibitively expensive, making Stones — available for nothing — a far more achievable and equally attractive option. There is a possibility Inter could pursue both players if Benjamin Pavard departs, but for now all focus is on bringing Stones to the San Siro.
The former Everton man made five appearances for England at the 2026 World Cup, performing well in the tournament despite a difficult few club seasons due to injury. In truth, fitness has been the defining issue of Stones' career at City — he averaged fewer than 60 per cent of available Premier League minutes in each of his ten seasons at the Etihad. A recurring cycle of thigh, calf and muscular problems limited him to just 439 Premier League minutes last season.
Yet when fit, his quality was never in question. Stones was part of one of the most decorated squads in Premier League history under Pep Guardiola, winning five league titles, an FA Cup and a Champions League during his time in Manchester. He reinvented himself as a midfielder-centre-back hybrid under Guardiola, and that versatility could make him a valuable asset for Inter in the seasons ahead.
At 32, this is arguably the ideal move for Stones — a fresh start in a new country, competing for major honours in Serie A, and a chance to extend his career away from the physical demands of the Premier League. Inter Milan, reigning Serie A champions, represent a destination befitting a player of his quality and experience.
The paperwork is expected to be completed in the coming days once the two-year contract terms are formally signed off.
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