Leeds United are eyeing a surprise move for free agent John Stones after his departure from Manchester City. The Whites are looking to bolster their defensive options ahead of the new Premier League season, having finished 14th last term with 47 points (11W-14D-13L).
Why Leeds United are interested in Stones
The 32-year-old centre-back, who won the World Cup with England in 2022, is a free agent after his contract expired at the Etihad. Stones has multiple offers from clubs across Europe, including Juventus, but Leeds' long-standing interest in the defender could give them an edge. Daniel Farke's side have already signed Tarik Muharemovic this summer and are keen to add another centre-back to their squad.
Stones' past connection with Leeds
Interestingly, Stones revealed in 2022 that Leeds had wanted to sign him when he was a youngster. The England international wrote for England Football: "I got scouted for Barnsley's academy while I was still playing Sunday league, and I never played for any other club at that time. I could've gone to Leeds as apparently they wanted to sign me, but I just wanted to stay at Barnsley with my friends." Almost 15 years later, Stones could finally make the move to Elland Road.
The challenges ahead
Leeds face stiff competition for Stones' signature, with Juventus reportedly in talks with the defender's agents. The Italian giants are trying to learn his financial demands ahead of an official offer. However, Leeds will take confidence from the fact that they beat Juventus to the signing of Muharemovic earlier this summer.
What Stones would bring to Leeds
Stones would be a huge arrival for Leeds, bringing Premier League and international experience to Farke's backline. His ability to play out from the back and his leadership qualities would be a major boost for a side that conceded 56 goals last season. The Whites will hope that Stones' past connection with the club and their Premier League status will help them secure his signature.
