John Stones is expected to leave Manchester City as a free agent when his contract expires in June 2026.
This is according to The Athletic and European transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who announced it on his X handle.
Persistent fitness issues have led City to decline a contract renewal, making Stones a high-profile free agent.
Reports indicate it is “gone for sure,” with discussions around how to announce his departure to provide a proper send-off.
Despite his success, the 31-year-old has struggled with availability, prompting City to seek younger defensive alternatives, such as Marc Guehi.
Everton are among the frontrunners tracking his situation for a potential return to Goodison Park.
Stones joined City on 9 August 2016, for £47.5 million on a six-year contract with a potential extra £2.5 million in add-ons, making him the world’s second most expensive defender in history, behind David Luiz.
Since joining City, Stones has won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three Carabao Cups, one UEFA Champions League, one UEFA Super Cup and one FIFA Club World Cup.
