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Juventus accelerate for Stones

Published

3 months ago

July 27, 2026

Juventus are continuing to explore the free-agent market as they look to strengthen Luciano Spalletti’s squad ahead of the new season.

Among the most intriguing opportunities is former Manchester City defender John Stones, who recently became available after his contract with the Premier League champions expired.

According to Sky Sport journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Juventus have reopened discussions with the English international’s representatives as they assess the possibility of bringing the experienced centre-back to Turin.

Juventus Open Talks for John Stones

As reported by Gianluca Di Marzio, Juventus have made fresh contact with Stones’ entourage while continuing to evaluate defensive reinforcements.

The Bianconeri, who have already completed the signings of Jeff Ekhator and Zeki Celik, remain active in the transfer market and view the 32-year-old as one of the most attractive free-agent options available.

Stones, born in 1994, left Manchester City after spending a decade at the Etihad Stadium, where he made nearly 300 appearances and won every major domestic and international trophy under Pep Guardiola.

He also featured in five matches for England at the FIFA World Cup, further underlining his pedigree on the biggest stage.

Di Marzio’s report suggests Juventus are carefully examining the financial feasibility of the deal while continuing negotiations with the player’s representatives.

Why Stones Could Be a Perfect Fit for Juventus

Should the transfer materialize, Juventus would be signing one of Europe’s most accomplished defenders without paying a transfer fee.

Stones would bring invaluable leadership, elite experience, and exceptional technical quality to the Bianconeri’s back line. One of his greatest strengths is his versatility.

Comfortable both as a traditional centre-back and as an auxiliary midfielder in possession, Stones has become renowned for his ability to build attacks from deep—an attribute that aligns perfectly with the modern, possession-based style Juventus are aiming to develop.

However, completing the deal will not be straightforward. As a player of Stones’ caliber available on a free transfer, he has attracted significant interest from clubs across Europe, particularly from financially powerful Premier League sides.

Juventus will therefore need to present not only a competitive financial package but also a convincing sporting project capable of persuading the England international that Turin is the ideal destination for the next chapter of his career.

For now, negotiations remain in the exploratory phase, but according to Gianluca Di Marzio, Juventus’ interest is genuine, and the club continues to evaluate whether a move for the experienced defender can become a concrete reality in the coming weeks.