adminEverton are monitoring John Stones’ situation as they consider a possible move should the defender become available on a free transfer when his Manchester City contract expires at the end of the season.
Manager David Moyes is understood to be an admirer of the England international and believes Stones would represent an upgrade on the club’s current central defensive options. Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown, who previously worked with Moyes at West Ham, told Football Insider that the Everton boss “would love” to bring the 31-year-old to Goodison Park this summer.
Despite that interest, there are serious reservations over Stones’ fitness record, which could ultimately deter Everton from pursuing a deal. The centre-back has featured just 13 times in all competitions this season due to recurring muscle injuries, and Pep Guardiola has declined to give any indication of when he might return to action.
David Moyes keen on Stones move
Brown previously revealed in September that Manchester City would be open to extending Stones’ contract, valuing his experience and leadership within a youthful squad. However, his ongoing injury problems have raised doubts over his future and could influence where he ends up next.
“Everton would definitely be interested in Stones,” Brown told Football Insider. “When he plays, he’s a top-class centre-half — strong defensively, comfortable on the ball and very experienced. But it would be a risk.
“He’s not available often enough. If he plays 20 games a season now, that’s considered good, and a club like Everton can’t really afford that. They need players such as James Tarkowski, who you know will be there week in, week out.
“Moyes would love to sign him, there’s no doubt. He’d improve their defence. His City contract is running down, they’ve brought Marc Guehi in, so he could be available for nothing — which is always appealing.
“But those injury concerns aren’t disappearing, and it wouldn’t be a surprise if Everton decided against it because they can’t rely on his availability.”
Everton also tracking Ben White
Stones is not the only defender Everton are considering as they step up efforts to strengthen both at centre-back and right-back. Football Insider revealed on 11 January that Everton are interested in Arsenal’s Ben White as Moyes looks to address concerns on the right side of defence.
The 28-year-old England international is being closely monitored, with Everton open to a move if he became available during the January window. However, Brown later confirmed on 13 January that Arsenal are unwilling to sanction a mid-season departure.
The Gunners are aiming to compete on all fronts and believe a large squad is essential as they chase silverware, making White’s exit highly unlikely at this stage.
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