John Stones snubbed a potential transfer to Arsenal or return to Everton last year and went on to become a key part of another Premier League title-winning Manchester City squad.
The England defender faced an uncertain future at the Etihad Stadium after falling down Pep Guardiola’s pecking order. The arrival of Ruben Dias further hindered his chances of regaining a key role. But he soon recovered a favourable standing to oust Aymeric Laporte.
Stones chose to stay and fight for his future at Manchester City amid interest from Arsenal and Everton in transfers. The Daily Mail reported ahead of Deadline Day last October that Mikel Arteta’s side had expressed their interest. Yet Everton were a more likely destination.
West Ham United and Chelsea also wanted Stones to strengthen their respective backlines. But the 27-year-old will look back fondly on deciding to challenge Laporte and Dias, after winning his third top-flight title. Making 21 appearances and helping to 14 clean sheets.
Stones’ performances also showed Arsenal and Everton why both explored transfers for the 51-cap Manchester City centre-back last year. Even scoring four goals, including the winner against another of hopeful suitor, West Ham, during a 2-1 victory in February.
Man City reward former Arsenal and Everton transfer target Stones
Manchester City rewarded Stones for his efforts toward the 2020/21 Premier League title with a new contract, as well. The Athletic report his new five-year deal is worth £250,000-a-week, having otherwise been a free agent in 2022.
Stones had no interest in entertaining offers to leave Manchester City a year after rejecting transfers to Arsenal or Everton. He had also helped Guardiola’s side reach the Champions League final, and England contest the Euro 2020 final this summer.
Gareth Southgate started the former Toffees enforcer, who left Goodison Park for £47.5m in 2016, in all of England’s European Championship fixtures, including the loss to Italy at Wembley. A run that returned five clean sheets to two goals conceded in seven games.
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