Everton are now plotting a summer move for an “unbelievable” Manchester City star, who David Moyes would love to sign.
Toffees eyeing summer move for new defender
Moyes has opted to play Jarrad Branthwaite at left-back as of late, with the Englishman playing in an unnatural role in the 1-0 defeat against Manchester United, although he has since admitted he’d rather be given the nod in the middle.
Branthwaite said: “The manager asked me to play there again and I’m happy to if it keeps me on the pitch. Obviously I’d like to be at centre-half, but, you know, I’m always happy to be on the pitch and helping the team.”
Given that the 23-year-old is being deployed on the left, and Michael Keane’s contract is set to expire this summer, the Toffees may need to bring in a new centre-back, and several targets have already been identified.
Marco Senesi could be a low-cost addition to Moyes’ squad, with the AFC Bournemouth star’s contract set to come to an end this summer, while the Merseysiders are also planning a formal approach to sign Atletico Madrid defender Robin Le Normand.
According to a report from Football Insider, Everton are now plotting a summer move for Manchester City star John Stones, but a deal could be difficult for Dan Friedkin & co to get over the line, given that he currently pockets £250k-a-week at the Etihad Stadium.
Indeed, the centre-back is among Man City’s highest earners, but he is expected to receive offers from the Premier League and abroad this summer, having struggled with injuries over the past few seasons.
Former scout Mick Brown believes the Toffees’ boss would personally be very keen on signing the defender, saying: “Moyesey would love to sign John Stones, there’s no doubt about that, he would definitely be an improvement on the options they’ve got at the moment.”
Stones could be “unbelievable” signing for Everton
The 31-year-old has had his fair share of injury issues over the past few years, recently spending a significant period of time on the sidelines due to a thigh problem.
|
John Stones’ injury record |
Games missed (Man City & England) |
|
2022-23 |
12 |
|
2023-24 |
11 |
|
2024-25 |
34 |
|
2025-26 |
21 |
However, the 87-time England international is a top player when fit, according to Thomas Tuchel, who singled him out for high praise earlier this season.
The Barnsley-born defender is vastly experienced, making 255 Premier League appearances, and winning the title on six occasions, while also lifting two FA Cups, four EFL Cups, a UEFA Super Cup, Club World Cup and the 2022-23 Champions League, across a glittering career.
As such, Stones could be a fantastic signing for Everton, but his injury record over the past few years will be a concern.
Moyes loves him: “Sensational” former Preston striker now major summer target for Everton
The Toffees are making plans for the summer.