- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC Football understands Manchester City are now ready to begin talks with 29-year-old star John Stones over a new contract.
John Stones currently has just over two years left on his current deal, but the England international is keen to extend his stay.
Described as ‘incredible’ by England teammate Jarrod Bowen, Stones has cemented himself as one of Pep Guardiola’s key players in recent years.
Comfortable at centre-back, he was a key cog in the treble-winning side stepping into midfield when required.
Sources have told HITC Football that Guardiola has made it clear to Manchester City’s hierarchy that Stones’ contract should be extended.
Manchester City ready to start contract talks with John Stones
Man City have a huge week of football ahead with their Champions League and Premier League fortunes in the balance.
They face FC Copenhagen with a 3-1 aggregate lead from the away leg and should progress to the quarter-finals on Wednesday evening.
The much bigger test comes on Sunday when they head to Anfield in a match that could have massive implications for the Premier League title.
Pep Guardiola is welcoming more of his first team stars back to action and one man who has played a key role in recent weeks is John Stones.
He’s only featured in half of Man City’s league games this season due to a hip injury but has played 90 minutes in each of the team’s last three matches.
Unsurprisingly, Guardiola is very keen for Manchester City to offer Stones a new contract.
The 29-year-old is a vital player not just because of his ability, but due to his versatility as well.
Man City already looking at summer transfer market
As well as retaining their key assets for next season, Man City are also hoping to improve the squad in the transfer market as well.
Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich is keen on a move to the Premier League, HITC understands, with Man City one of his potential suitors.
The Citizens have also shown an interest in 20-year-old Uruguayan attacker Luciano Rodriguez.
Pep Guardiola’s side rarely get a transfer wrong and this year Josko Gvardiol and Jeremy Doku have hit the ground running, while excitement is already building around Claudio Echeverri.
However, Man City know how important retaining their core is and sealing a new contract for John Stones would be one of the most important pieces of business they could do this year.
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