Manchester City are ready to entertain offers for defender John Stones this summer after Pep Guardiola reportedly gave the green light to trim the squad.
John Stones Transfer Latest: City Will Listen to Summer Bids
With a bloated roster of over 30 outfield players, Pep Guardiola has identified several names as not part of his long-term blueprint—Stones among them according to former Manchester United and Blackburn scout Mick Brown via Football Insider.
The Spanish coach is intent on streamlining the squad, raising questions over Stones’ future along with others like Kyle Walker and James McAtee.
Stones, now 31, endured an injury-hit 2024–25 season, making just six Premier League starts and picking up a thigh injury during the Champions League.
Guardiola’s frustration grew due to Stones’ unreliability; he missed 34 games overall, prompting City to consider moving him on.
Despite the uncertainty, Stones has publicly expressed his commitment, stating “I want to stay here … I love it” in a move to silence exit talk. He described the long periods sidelined as “dark days” and admitted they tested him mentally.
Guardiola echoed a similar sentiment in March, affirming: “Next season, John [Stones] will be there”. Yet, behind the scenes, City are open to selling if the right bid arrives.
Everton are reportedly considering a reunion, with Stones potentially returning to Merseyside let alone West Ham and even Saudi clubs though City’s high wage demands and his injury record may scare off suitors. Everton are keen if Stones accepts a lower wage package.
Stones enters the final year of his contract and is at a career crossroads.
Is he ready to bid farewell to the Etihad or can he rediscover consistency and resilience to remain part of Guardiola’s plans? For City, it’s a balancing act—managing a star with proven quality, yet limited availability.
