Arsenal are considering a free transfer for John Stones as short-term cover should William Saliba face a lengthy spell out.
The Sun reports the Gunners view the England defender as a low-cost fix while they await clarity on Saliba’s fitness. Any approach is likely to hinge on the outcome of a medical assessment.
The concern over Saliba is significant. The France centre-back was forced off at half-time in the World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain, aggravating a back problem he had played through all tournament. There are fears he could require surgery and be sidelined for up to five months.
Stones offers a familiar solution. Mikel Arteta knows him well from their time together at Manchester City, where the Arsenal boss spent more than three years as Pep Guardiola’s assistant. His comfort in a possession-based system would suit Arsenal’s style.
Arsenal eye free agent Stones as Saliba injury cover
His availability adds to the appeal. Stones left City at the end of June after a decade at the Etihad, and is now a free agent, meaning a deal would not dent Arsenal’s transfer budget. He would arrive as an experienced cover rather than a guaranteed starter.
He enhanced his stock at the World Cup, too. Stones made history as the first unattached player to represent England, and impressed in the knockout stages, shackling close friend Erling Haaland in the quarter-final win over Norway.
His fitness record, however, is a clear concern. Stones started just four matches for City after November last season, hampered by recurring calf and thigh problems. His durability would be a genuine question over a full campaign.
A cheaper route also appeals financially. Arsenal had considered a £60m move for Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa, and Stones represents a far more economical alternative on a short-term deal.
He is not short of suitors, either. Tottenham are also credited with interest as Roberto De Zerbi reshapes his defence, having already added Marcos Senesi and Andy Robertson.
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