Manchester City are considering selling their star defender if a good offer comes in for him, despite him being a main man.
Manchester City are reportedly facing a crucial decision regarding the future of their seasoned centre-back as he recovers from a recent injury, according to sources from GIVEMESPORT.
The experienced defender, who joined Manchester City from Everton in 2016 for a fee of approximately £47.5 million, has been an integral part of the club’s success over the years. His contributions have helped the team secure all major trophies, making him a vital figure in their dominant era under Pep Guardiola. However, with John Stones now 30 years old, his status as a young and promising talent is long behind him, and recurring injuries have started to impact his availability. This situation, coupled with his current contract nearing its expiration, has left City with a significant decision to make about his future.
John Stones’ current contract with Manchester City is set to run out next summer, creating a sense of urgency around the club’s deliberations. According to reports, the reigning Premier League champions are considering offering a new deal to retain the defender, as Guardiola still views him as an essential member of the squad. Stones remains a trusted figure for the manager in the present, even as City begins laying the groundwork for a defensive rebuild for the future. However, should an attractive offer arrive for the player during the summer transfer window, the club may have to seriously evaluate their options.
Stones has recently returned to the field after a foot injury that sidelined him for some time. Though he has primarily featured as a substitute in recent matches, his presence remains a boost for Guardiola’s defensive plans in the short term. Nonetheless, his injury record and age have prompted questions about whether he will continue to be a long-term solution for the team. The situation is further complicated by Manchester City’s active efforts to secure the future of their backline. During the current January transfer window, City have already signed two young defenders: Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis, aged 20 and 19, respectively. These signings signal the club’s intent to develop a younger defensive core for the years ahead.
While City clearly value what John Stones brings to the team, both on and off the pitch, his future at the Etihad Stadium remains uncertain. The club faces a balancing act between honoring the service of an experienced professional and ensuring that their defensive setup evolves to meet the demands of the future. It is expected that discussions around Stones’ next steps will gain clarity in the coming months. If an enticing offer is made for him during the summer, City may find themselves at a crossroads, having to decide between extending his stay or allowing him to move on.
Ultimately, the coming months will be crucial in determining what lies ahead for John Stones. While Guardiola continues to rely on his contributions, the club’s evolving priorities and Stones’ contract situation suggest that significant decisions are looming. Whether Stones remains part of City’s long-term plans or moves elsewhere, his legacy as a pivotal figure in their recent success is already well established.
