Defender Stones joins Inter Milan on free transfer

England defender John Stones has completed his move to Inter Milan on a free transfer, signing a two-year contract with the Serie A champions. The 30-year-old centre-back departs Manchester City after eight seasons, during which he established himself as a cornerstone of their defensive setup and won three Premier League titles. Stones brings considerable pedigree to the Italian outfit, having made 76 appearances for the England national team and winning the UEFA Champions League with City in 2023.

Stones' arrival at the San Siro represents a significant addition to Inter's backline as they pursue their third consecutive Scudetto. The Nerazzurri finished the 2023-24 season with 91 points, securing their 20th Serie A title and demonstrating their defensive solidity throughout the campaign. At Manchester City, Stones made 311 competitive appearances and was integral to their record-breaking 100-point Premier League season in 2017-18. His experience in European competitions and Premier League football will provide Inter with valuable depth in their squad rotation and European ambitions.

Stones will compete for a starting position alongside Inter's established centre-back pairing of Alessandro Bastoni and Stefan de Vrij. The defender's move to Italy marks a new chapter in his career after establishing himself as a world-class defender in England. Inter will look to integrate Stones into their tactical system under manager Simone Inzaghi, with the defender available for selection immediately as they prepare for the upcoming Serie A season and their continued European campaign in the Champions League.