Former Manchester City star edges towards Serie A switch as Inter move ahead of Juventus in race for England international
Inter Milan are on the verge of completing one of the biggest free-agent signings of the summer, with John Stones closing in on a move to the Nerazzurri after giving his initial approval to join the Serie A giants.
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano reports that the deal is in its final stages, with only a few formal details remaining before the England defender undergoes medical examinations. An official announcement is expected once the remaining paperwork is completed.
The move marks a significant step in Inter’s pursuit of the experienced centre-back, who became a free agent after his decade-long spell at Manchester City came to an end with the expiry of his contract on June 30.
Inter Move Ahead in Transfer Race
Although several clubs expressed interest in signing the 32-year-old, Inter have emerged as the clear frontrunners. Romano revealed that the player has already given the club a positive indication, allowing negotiations to progress rapidly.
Italian reports suggest that Inter have been working on the transfer for several days through direct discussions with Stones’ representatives, while only the final contractual details remain to be resolved before the deal is officially completed.
Juventus Also Made Contact
Before Inter accelerated negotiations, both Inter and Juventus were actively exploring the possibility of bringing the England international to Serie A.
According to Football Italia, Juventus contacted Stones’ camp to gather information about a potential move, while Inter maintained more advanced talks with the defender’s representatives. Those discussions have now placed the Nerazzurri in pole position.
Premier League Interest Falls Short
Stones also attracted attention from within England after leaving Manchester City. Premier League rivals Chelsea and Arsenal were among the clubs that monitored his situation, but the defender is understood to have been attracted by the opportunity to begin a new chapter in Italian football.
The prospect of playing in Serie A and competing in European competition appears to have convinced the veteran defender that now is the right time to leave England after spending ten successful years at the Etihad Stadium.
Decorated Manchester City Career Ends
Stones leaves Manchester City as one of the club’s most successful defenders of the modern era.
During his ten seasons with the Premier League champions, he won six Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, domestic cup competitions and several other major honours, becoming a key figure under Pep Guardiola.
Despite injuries limiting his appearances in recent seasons, the experienced defender remained one of England’s most accomplished centre-backs and featured in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, helping his national team reach the semi-finals.
Medical Expected Soon
With Stones having already given his approval, Inter are now working to complete the remaining contractual formalities before arranging his medical tests.
If no unexpected issues arise, the deal is expected to be finalised within the coming hours, bringing an end to one of the summer’s most closely followed free-agent transfer sagas and adding another experienced international to Inter’s squad ahead of the 2026-27 season.
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