SHOCK TRANSFER HUMILIATION! Leeds fans left absolutely devastated as bitter rival SNATCHES their top target in brutal last-gasp raid — medical ALREADY underway!
Leeds United remain optimistic about signing John Stones this summer.
John Stones appears to be closing in on a move to Italy, dealing a blow to Leeds United’s hopes of bringing the experienced defender back to England this summer.
The centre-back became a free agent earlier this summer after his contract with Manchester City expired, ending a successful decade-long spell at the Etihad Stadium.
During his time with City, Stones enjoyed considerable success, collecting several major trophies and establishing himself as one of the club’s most experienced defenders.
The England international also remained involved with the Three Lions at this year’s World Cup, starting their semi-final defeat to A.
Despite the 32-year-old’s well-documented struggles with injuries in recent seasons, Leeds had maintained an interest in signing him. The Whites viewed the free-agent market as an important avenue for strengthening Daniel Farke’s squad, although they were aware that competition for Stones’ signature would be significant.
It now appears that Leeds have discovered where the defender will continue his career.
John Stones closes in on Inter move
MOT Leeds News previously reported that Leeds were interested in securing Stones on a free transfer following his departure from Manchester City. However, their hopes now appear to have been dashed.
According to Tuttomercatoweb journalist Marco Conterio, Stones is currently in Milan and undergoing a medical ahead of a proposed two-year contract with Inter. The agreement is reportedly worth around £4 million, with Inter beating Serie A rivals Juventus to his signature.
Juventus had also been monitoring the situation, while BBC Sport previously indicated that Leeds could face competition from the Italian giants. Inter’s late move, however, appears to have won the race.
Stones’ wage demands may also have been a concern for Leeds, particularly given the club’s desire to maintain financial discipline.
The Whites have already added Tarik Muharemovic to their defensive options, but Stones would have provided Farke with valuable Premier League experience and additional defensive security.
Leeds must turn to other targets
Although Leeds look set to miss out on Stones, their intention to strengthen at centre-back remains unchanged.
The club wanted another defender even before Pascal Struijk’s departure, meaning Farke could now require two new central defenders.
Leeds have considered Udinese’s Oumar Solet, although concerns surrounding his ongoing knee problem have cooled their interest.
Juventus defender Lloyd Kelly remains a player on Leeds’ radar, and the Englishman could now become a more realistic target as the Whites search for an alternative following their apparent failure to land Stones.
