John Stones has made a verbal agreement to join Inter Milan after leaving Manchester City at the end of the season, according to reports in Italy.
The former Manchester City defender is set to sign a two-year contract with his representatives finalising the terms of a deal. The move will reunite Stones with former City teammate Manuel Akanji, who joined Inter on a permanent basis following a season-long loan.
Potential unveiling this week
The parties are hopeful that the 32-year-old's transfer will be completed by the end of the week. While he is likely to be recovering after his World Cup campaign with England, Stones could be unveiled in time for Inter's friendly clash with Manchester City on Saturday.
Stones was also contacted by Juventus over the weekend, and had drawn interest from Premier League clubs Arsenal and Chelsea. Arsenal are seeking to reinforce their backline following William Saliba's injury, while Chelsea are bidding to add experience to their squad this summer after also targeting Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson.
End of an era at Manchester City
Stones' departure from Manchester City was confirmed in April, offering him an opportunity to say goodbye to the club. The Barnsley-born star enjoyed a successful 10-year period that matched Pep Guardiola's tenure, but in recent seasons he has missed time through injury.
Speaking ahead of his departure, Stones acknowledged that he wished his City stay could continue. “Everything comes to an end and I wish it’d go on forever, but I know that that’s not a possibility,” he said.
“It’s tough, but at the same time, I can look back on the 10 years and I’m so proud of what I’ve achieved and what I’ve done here.
“The memories that I’ve got with absolutely everyone, not just the players, the staff, the fans, the guys that we all see on a daily basis and you’ve become friends with and have bonds with.
“It’s not sunk in yet, but when I leave I think it will and it’ll hit me.”
