According to the reports from the Sun, Manchester City centre half John Stones has emerged as a shock transfer target for Arsenal. The same agency that represents Stones also works on behalf of Arteta, and the defender would be keen to discuss a move even if it is on loan.
Reports mention that Guardiola might have lost faith in Stones after he has failed to establish himself as the leading centre half after his arrival for £47.5m from Everton. Stones wants to resurrect his England career, and for that to happen, he needs to play regularly.
Stones looking to move away?
A source, as cited by the Sun said, ‘”He was in London to see his agent last week and is due back again this week. He knows if he is to resurrect his England career, he has to get more time on the pitch. Arteta is in need of defenders so it could be perfect for both of them.”
It might be perfect for both of them, but it is going to be far from ideal for City who are already short on defenders this season. Aymeric Laporte is close to returning to the pitch, but we believe that it would be highly unlikely to see City sanction a move for Stones in this January window.
Arteta might have a connection with Guardiola, but City would want to fight in other competitions, and they would need options at centre half. Nicolas Otamendi hasn’t been in great form either so even when Laporte comes back; Stones is likely to get first-team opportunities.
Why has Stones struggled at City?
It is fair to say that Stones has been unable to fulfil his potential at City. Injuries have troubled him, but everything can’t be blamed to injuries. In terms of ability, Stones seem to have everything to his game which a defender would need. He is strong in the air, and he can make clean challenges.
The former Everton man is known for his ability to play out from the back, and that is why he has featured in Gareth Southgate’s plans over the last few years. However, it cannot be ignored that he has a mistake in him where he gives the opposition a chance. Lack of concentration and not being aware of the situation has sometimes caused his downfall in the last few years even though he has played a decent role in City’s back to back league title wins.
Guardiola in no way should sanction a move for Stones in this window. A move in the summer wouldn’t be a bad idea. It remains to be seen what would transpire in the next few weeks.
