Everton Monitor John Stones as Free Transfer Target

Everton are monitoring Manchester City defender John Stones as a potential free transfer target this summer, with manager David Moyes viewing the England international as a significant upgrade to the club's central defense. Stones' contract with City expires at the end of the season, opening the door for a possible return to Goodison Park after a decade away.

Moyes, who originally signed the then-teenage Stones from Barnsley in January 2013 during his time as Everton manager, holds the 31-year-old in high regard. That move marked Moyes' final signing at Everton before he departed for Manchester United. Stones spent three and a half years with the Toffees, establishing himself as a promising talent, before transferring to City for nearly £50 million in 2016. At the Etihad Stadium, he has since won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the Champions League as part of City's 2023 treble.

The interest from Everton stems from City's recent bolstering of their backline, including the confirmed £20 million acquisition of Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace. Additional signings such as Josko Gvardiol and Abdukodir Khusanov have further crowded the defensive options under manager Pep...