Inter Milan have secured a verbal agreement with England international John Stones for a free transfer, according to Sky Italy. The central defender, who left Manchester City at the end of last season after a decade at the club, had attracted interest from Arsenal and Chelsea, but the Serie A champions have moved ahead in the race.
Stones' move to Inter
The 32-year-old, who joined Manchester City from Everton for £50 million in 2016, is set to sign a two-year deal with Inter. Despite an injury-hit Premier League campaign, Stones impressed for England at the World Cup this summer, starting three games as Thomas Tuchel's side reached the semi-finals before losing to eventual runners-up Argentina.
Arsenal and Chelsea miss out
Arsenal had considered a move for Stones, particularly after William Saliba was ruled out for an extended period with a back injury. Chelsea also showed interest, aiming to add experience to Xabi Alonso's squad. However, both Premier League clubs now look set to miss out, with Inter expected to complete the deal by the end of the week.
Juventus were also linked with Stones, but Inter have emerged as the frontrunners. Cristian Chivu's side, who won Serie A last season, have already signed midfielder Aleksandar Stankovic from Club Brugge and goalkeeper Ivan Provedel from Lazio this summer.
Inter's other targets
Inter remain interested in Tottenham defender Cristian Romero, who is expected to leave the north London club this summer after five seasons. Inter's sporting director, Piero Ausilio, told Sky Italy: 'It's definitely a deal we are trying to sign with the player and the club. These things take some time but there's definitely interest. Let's see. We are interested in signing Cuti Romero. We have met his agent and we have already talked with Tottenham. Let's see what happens.'
