Everton plotting sensational move for Manchester City defender

Everton are exploring a dramatic return for former favourite John Stones as the Merseyside club look to bolster their defensive options ahead of a potential European push next season. The 31-year-old Manchester City centre-back is set to become a free agent when his contract expires at the Etihad Stadium, placing him firmly on the Goodison Park radar.

With Sean Dyche’s side currently sitting just three points behind fifth-placed Liverpool in the Premier League table, the prospect of continental qualification has accelerated Everton’s summer planning. Club officials have already outlined a prudent transfer strategy centred on free transfers and low-cost acquisitions, a brief that aligns perfectly with Stones’ availability.

Stones, who made 95 appearances for Everton between 2013 and 2016 before his £47.5 million move to City, is understood to be open to a homecoming. The England international has amassed 292 club appearances in all competitions, scoring 19 goals and collecting six Premier League winners’ medals and a Champions League crown during his trophy-laden spell in Manchester.

Yet the 2025-26 campaign has proved frustrating for the Barnsley-born defender, who has been restricted to only four league starts after a succession of injury setbacks. With no new deal on the table from City, Stones is expected to seek regular first-team football elsewhere, rekindling Everton’s interest.

Beyond his central-defensive duties, Stones’ versatility – he is comfortable at right-back or even as an auxiliary midfielder – and renowned ball-playing qualities would add tactical flexibility to Dyche’s squad. His winning pedigree and 64 senior England caps also promise the kind of leadership Everton crave as they target a sustained climb up the table.

Crucially, a free-transfer swoop would satisfy the club’s stringent budgetary constraints while delivering a statement signing capable of elevating the dressing-room standard. Negotiations have yet to commence, but sources on Merseyside indicate that initial dialogue could begin once the summer window officially opens.