Everton Linked Veteran Defender Won’t Rush Into Any Decision: Can They Attract Him?

“It’s more a case of waiting and seeing right now. Stones won’t rush into any decision. He’ll consider his next steps in the coming weeks once it has been confirmed that he will leave Manchester City after a successful 10 years at the club. There’s been links with a potential move back to Everton, but I would say they’re probably unlikely right now. Stones, at this stage of his career, 31, I think he could maybe look to try his luck abroad.”

Everton’s sentimental case carries real obstacles

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – MARCH 07: John Stones of Manchester City takes to the field prior to the Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round match between Newcastle United and Manchester City on March 07, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

For Everton fans, this transfer feels more like a fairy tale than a solid plan. The connection is definitely there, as Stones grew up at Goodison before City turned him into a world-class defender, but good memories aren’t enough to make this deal work. Jarrad Branthwaite’s recent injury means David Moyes desperately needs a new centre-back this summer. That makes the search for a defender urgent, but the actual stats show a worrying trend for Stones.

In his seven Premier League games this season, Stones saw seven goals go in and managed just one clean sheet, meaning his team conceded about every 50 minutes he was playing. He didn’t record a single tackle and averaged only 0.51 interceptions per 90 minutes, though he did make 3.31 clearances. These numbers suggest a player struggling to find his rhythm after repeated injuries, rather than a star who can change a team’s fortunes overnight.

Everton are currently 11th in the table with no European football to offer as of now, and the Friedkin Group is keeping a tight grip on the budget for their first window. Clubs in Italy and elsewhere can offer Stones much better sporting projects. Everton’s best shot is to play on his emotions, but as we know, nostalgia doesn’t pay the bills.