Everton Want To Sign 31 Year Old Manchester City Player In The Final Year Of His Contract: Should City Sell Him? | OneFootball

Manchester City have finished third in the Premier League, but they haven’t been at their best this season. Every summer raises uncomfortable questions. Decisions are not always about big-name signings. Sometimes, departures set the tone. John Stones’ situation makes this clear.

The English centre-back, who was a reliable player for years, is now facing an uncertain future. Injuries have reduced his playing time and, despite the respect he commands within the dressing room, he is beginning to lose ground. With players such as Akanji, Dias and Ake occupying the position, competition is becoming fierce. Guardiola values his profile, but logic points to adjustments.

Everton Want To Sign John Stones from Manchester City

According to information from GIVEMESPORT, Everton have already made moves to find out about Stones’ contractual situation, with a view to securing his return. David Moyes wants to strengthen his defence with someone who already knows the club. The operation is not easy, especially given the player’s salary, but those at Goodison Park believe they could offer him something that Manchester City cannot: continuity and minutes on the pitch. Stones is in the final year of his contract, and his physical condition has been inconsistent, factors that could open the door to a possible departure this summer.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 11: John Stones of Manchester City looks dejected after the team’s defeat in the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Knockout Play-off first leg match between Manchester City and Real Madrid C.F. at Manchester City Stadium on February 11, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

From City’s point of view, selling Stones does not sound unreasonable. At 31 years of age and with muscle problems that have limited his recent impact, his presence is based more on history than on current form. Guardiola has alternatives that offer more pace, consistency and availability.

Should City Sell Him?

Freeing up his place would give room to target younger reinforcements or profiles with less physical risk. Keeping him only makes sense if there is medical certainty that he will be able to last a whole season. That does not seem to be the case. Furthermore, the fact that Everton want him could facilitate a smooth transfer, without friction or drama.

On the other hand, there is an emotional angle that cannot be ignored. Stones represents a successful era. His departure would mark the end of an era, and that always carries weight. But if the club prioritise sporting considerations over nostalgia, the most logical thing would be to let him go.

An exit could even be agreed that respects the player, with performance bonuses or future clauses. From another perspective, if Stones improves his physical condition and returns to being the elegant centre-back he once was, City would lose a valuable asset. In short, the right decision is not to hold on, but to anticipate wear and tear.