Juventus' new target: free agent John Stones

Juventus are chasing a cost-free but valuable opportunity to strengthen their defence this summer. According to Sky Italia, the Italian giants are showing interest in England international centre-back John Stones, who has parted ways with Manchester City. The 32-year-old became a free agent after his contract expired on June 30, following ten seasons at the club.

Stones won six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, three EFL Cups and the 2022-23 Champions League during his time under Pep Guardiola at City. However, according to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, the player has been offered not just to Juventus but to Italy's other two giants, Inter and Milan. All three clubs remain cautious over his high wage demands and a fitness record that has dipped to an average of just 14.6 league appearances per season over the past five years.

Strengthening the defence is among Juventus' priorities this summer, a need made all the more pressing after the club missed out on Champions League qualification last season. Head coach Luciano Spalletti's current centre-back options include Pierre Kalulu, Lloyd Kelly, Bremer and Federico Gatti, though Bremer has been linked with Bayern Munich and Gatti with Napoli. According to Sky Sports, Juventus have made contact with Stones' representatives to discuss a possible two-year contract.

A member of England's World Cup squad who started the opening win over Croatia, Stones also made a brief appearance in the 3-2 round-of-16 win over Mexico. The experienced defender is not expected to make any decision on his future until England's tournament run comes to an end.

Source: Sky Italia

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