John Stones Rejects Chelsea Arsenal by agreeing to join Inter Milan on a free transfer after leaving Manchester City

England defender John Stones has moved closer to joining Inter Milan after reaching a verbal agreement with the Serie A champions, despite attracting interest from Chelsea and Arsenal following his departure from Manchester City.

Also read: Alejandro Garnacho Explains Chelsea Exit After Villa Move

The proposed move would see the 32-year-old sign a two-year contract, with final details and medical checks expected to be completed in the coming days.

John Stones became a free agent at the end of June after bringing a decade-long spell at Manchester City to a close.

During that time, John Stones established himself as one of the Premier League’s most decorated defenders, winning six league titles, the UEFA Champions League and numerous domestic honours.

Interest in the experienced centre-back intensified after England’s impressive run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where John Stones overcame an injury-disrupted club season to deliver commanding performances and help the Three Lions reach the semi-finals. Those displays reignited competition for his signature across Europe.

Chelsea had explored signing John Stones to add leadership and experience to a youthful squad, while Arsenal monitored the defender as the club assessed defensive options following concerns over William Saliba’s fitness. Juventus also held discussions with the player’s representatives before Inter accelerated negotiations.

According to Sky Sport Italia, Inter’s decisive approach ultimately persuaded John Stones to embrace a new challenge outside English football.

The agreement is understood to be for two seasons, with a reported salary of around €4 million net per year.

The move represents another significant addition for Cristian Chivu, who is reshaping the Serie A champions’ squad after last season’s title success.

Inter have prioritised experienced reinforcements as the club prepares to defend its domestic crown while competing in the UEFA Champions League.

For Chelsea and Arsenal, missing out on John Stones means attention is likely to shift towards alternative defensive targets before the transfer window closes.

Both clubs continue to evaluate their options as preparations for the new Premier League campaign gather pace.

Although the transfer has yet to be formally completed, the verbal agreement marks a pivotal step in one of the summer’s most notable free-agent moves.

Also read: Alejandro Garnacho Explains Chelsea Exit After Villa Move

If finalised, John Stones will end a distinguished career in English domestic football and begin a fresh chapter in Italy with one of Europe’s most successful clubs.