Arsenal target signs for Inter Milan

John Stones has completed a move to Inter Milan, ending speculation that he could provide cover during William Saliba’s recovery.

John Stones #5 of England is attended to by medical staffs during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi Final match between England and Argentina at Atlanta Stadium on July 15 — Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

Arsenal will have to look elsewhere for defensive cover after former target John Stones completed a move to Inter Milan, ending speculation that the experienced defender could arrive in north London following William Saliba‘s injury.

Stones had been linked with Arsenal as the club assessed potential options to provide cover for Saliba, who is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines while recovering from a back injury.

Instead, the 32-year-old has signed for the reigning Serie A champions after leaving Manchester City as a free agent at the end of June.

The England international has agreed a two-year contract with Inter, reportedly worth €4 million per season, bringing to an end a decade at Manchester City in which he collected six Premier League titles, the Champions League and numerous other honours.

Arsenal's German midfielder Kai Havertz (L) vies with Manchester City's English defender John Stones (R) during the English FA Community Shield football match between Arsenal and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium, in London, August 6, 2023. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images) — Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images

Stones said: “I’m someone who is very hungry to win again. I’ve been very, very lucky and fortunate to have won so many things in the past. I want to bring that experience here and help the team, help the club and keep learning and growing as a player.

“I’m very excited. Hopefully, I can bring all of my attributes, and I’m very, very open to learning new things and a new way of football and a new league.”

With Stones now committed to Inter Milan, Arsenal will need to continue exploring alternative options if they decide further defensive reinforcement is required while Saliba continues his rehabilitation.

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 02: Martin Odegaard of Arsenal scores his team's first goal whilst under pressure from John Stones of Manchester City as Stefan Ortega of Manchester City fails to make a save during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester City FC at Emirates Stadium on February 02, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images) — Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

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