John Stones apparently ‘would be keen’ to discuss a potential move to Arsenal as the defender seeks regular first-team football to boost his chances with England ahead of next summer’s European Championships.
The Manchester City defender has been linked with a potential move to the north London side as new manager Mikel Arteta seeks to reinforce his defensive options at the club, the Spaniard an admirer of the centre-back having worked alongside Stones during his three seasons on the coaching staff at the Etihad.
The 25-year-old has struggled to find his best form due to a succession of injuries, with Stones featuring just ten times in the Premier League for Pep Guardiola’s side so far this season, sparking fears he could lose his place in Gareth Southgate’s England side.
According to the Sun, the defender would now be interested in discussing a potential move to the Emirates during the January transfer window, and would consider a loan move having failed to establish himself as an automatic starter for the champions this season.
Arsenal are keen to strengthen defensively following their disappointing start to the season, whilst their need for additions has further increased following the season-ending injury suffered to Callum Chambers and decision to allow Konstantinos Mavropanos to join German side Nurnberg on loan.
No matter how ‘keen’ Stones is, the likelihood of City allowing the move appears to be remote, the club having struggled for depth at the back this season with midfielder Fernandinho having been utilised in an unorthodox central defensive role so far this season.
Aymeric Laporte’s impending return from long term injury will boost the club’s stocks, though the club will likely be reluctant to lose Stones mid-season with Nicolas Otamendi the club’s only other recognised senior centre-back.
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