Arsenal are reportedly considering a surprise move for free agent defender John Stones as uncertainty grows around William Saliba’s fitness heading into the new season.
The Gunners are understood to be weighing up Stones as a short-term solution should Saliba face a prolonged spell on the sidelines following a recent injury setback.
Saliba was forced off at half-time during France’s semi-final defeat to Spain after aggravating a suspected back injury during the World Cup campaign.
Arsenal are still awaiting a full medical assessment, but there are growing concerns that the 25-year-old centre-back may have suffered a serious injury that could require surgery.
If those fears are confirmed, Mikel Arteta’s side could be forced into the transfer market before the Premier League season gets underway to bolster their defensive options.
Stones would represent a familiar and cost-effective option for Arsenal, given his well-documented relationship with Arteta during their time together at Manchester City.
The Arsenal manager spent more than three years working alongside Stones as Pep Guardiola’s assistant, a period during which the defender established himself as one of the Premier League’s most accomplished ball-playing centre-backs.
Now 32, Stones is available on a free transfer after his contract with Manchester City expired at the end of June, making him an appealing option for clubs seeking experienced cover without the burden of a transfer fee.
The experienced England international is believed to be assessing interest from clubs both in England and abroad, though the chance to reunite with Arteta and compete for major honours could make Arsenal a compelling destination.
Arsenal’s interest is currently reported to be at an exploratory stage, with any formal approach likely to depend heavily on the outcome of Saliba’s forthcoming medical assessment.
Elsewhere, Stones has also attracted interest from Tottenham, where Roberto De Zerbi is wasting no time reshaping his squad following a difficult near-relegation season last term.
Spurs have already added Andy Robertson and Martin Dubravka to their defensive ranks, with Marcos Senesi also arriving on a free transfer from Bournemouth.
De Zerbi is reportedly keen to bring in Stones as another experienced option to provide leadership and stability at the back as Tottenham look to rebuild their defensive foundations.
With two top clubs now circling, Stones looks set to have no shortage of options as he weighs up the next chapter of his career this summer.
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