Transfer: John Stones snubs Chelsea, Arsenal agrees deal with new club

Former Manchester City defender, John Stones has snubbed Chelsea and Arsenal and has reached a verbal agreement to join Inter Milan on a free transfer.

Stones garnered interest from numerous top European clubs following his exit from Manchester City at the conclusion of last season, a decade after his £50 million transfer from Everton.

Despite facing an injury-plagued league season, the 32-year-old showcased his quality with impressive performances for England during the World Cup this summer.

Stones participated in three matches for the Three Lions as Thomas Tuchel’s team advanced to the semi-finals, ultimately succumbing to a late defeat against the eventual runners-up, Argentina.

Reigning Premier League champions Arsenal had been considering a move for Stones, especially after the announcement that William Saliba would be sidelined for an extended period due to a back injury.

Chelsea has also shown interest in the English defender, as they aim to infuse much-needed experience into Xabi Alonso’s squad.

However, both Premier League clubs seem to have missed out in the pursuit of Stones, with Sky Italy reporting that Inter has secured a two-year agreement for the central defender.

Juventus was also rumored to be interested in acquiring Stones, but Inter now appears poised to finalize the deal by the end of the week.

Cristian Chivu’s team, who claimed the Serie A title last year, has already signed midfielder Aleksandar Stankovic from Club Brugge and goalkeeper Ivan Provedel from Lazio this summer.

Inter is also keen on attempting to sign Cristian Romero, who is expected to depart Tottenham this summer after five seasons in north London.