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Chelsea explores signing John Stones as defensive options increase

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 22, 2026, 8:05 AM

Last updated Jul 22, 2026

Chelsea explores signing John Stones as defensive options increase

Summary

Chelsea is considering signing John Stones as a free agent following his departure from Manchester City this summer. The 32-year-old defender, who made five appearances for England in the recent World Cup, is seeking a new challenge and has interest from various clubs in the Premier League and Serie A. Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso is looking to bolster his defence with experienced players as the team appears to be in transition. Stones is among several defensive options under review, while Chelsea also engages in talks for Maxence Lacroix and deals for Benoit Badiashile and Trevoh Chalobah are being discussed as well.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Stones is a free agent after leaving Manchester City
•Chelsea aims to improve defensive leadership
•Alonso prefers a three-man centre-back system
•Talks ongoing for Lacroix, Badiashile, and Chalobah
•Chelsea recently signed Morgan Rogers for £117m

Latest Updates

8:05 AMYahoo Sports — Chelsea eye John Stones free transfer as Xabi Alonso seeks leader for new look defence

What they're saying

"
Chelsea are weighing up the signing of John Stones as a free agent as the club consider centre-back signings.Stones is seeking a new challenge after leavingManchester City this summer at the expiratio...
— Yahoo Sports

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