Simeone likes Stones

The English international has ended his contract with Manchester City

Mario Roldán Martínez | 23 Jul 2026 | 14.30
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John Stones is a free agent / Getty Images
John Stones is a free agent / Getty Images

La Liga
1 X 2
Atletico Madrid Osasuna
16/09/26 19:00:00
1.40 4.50 7.50

John Stones, a 32-year-old English center-back, has become one of the names that Atlético is considering to strengthen their defense this summer transfer window. Simeone highly values the English international, who has just become a free agent after his contract with Manchester City expired and enters the market after playing a prominent role in the recent World Cup with England.

The defender has been a free agent since June 30, so any club can negotiate directly with him without paying a transfer fee. This situation makes Stones an attractive market opportunity for several European teams, including the red and white team, which is looking to add an internationally experienced center-back.

Simeone sees John Stones as an ideal fit for Atlético

Atlético's interest in Stones aligns with the profile that Simeone is seeking to reinforce the defense. Stones brings a decade of elite experience after playing close to 300 matches with Manchester City, where he won six Premier League titles, a Champions League, and a total of 19 trophies since joining in 2016 from Everton.

During the recent World Cup, the English international showcased his competitive level after several seasons hampered by physical issues. He started in five matches for England and contributed to the team's journey to the semifinals, sparking interest from various clubs for his signing.

Stones comes from being a key player in the World Cup / Reuters

For the red and white coaching staff, his ability to build from the back and his European competition experience align with the team's search for fortifying a defensive line undergoing reconstruction this summer.

Manchester City closes a chapter, intensifying competition

Stones' departure from Manchester City concludes a ten-season tenure. The club confirmed earlier that they would not renew the center-back's contract, making him one of the most sought-after free agents in the market.

Atlético is not alone in the race. Clubs in England have also shown interest in acquiring the defender on a free transfer. Chelsea and Arsenal are among the teams monitoring his situation, raising potential competition in the coming weeks.

The absence of a transfer fee simplifies the operation for any suitor, although the player's wage and contract duration will be decisive factors in the negotiation.

John Stones' future to be decided in the coming weeks

As of now, there is no finalized agreement between John Stones and Atlético, but Simeone's interest is strong, and the English international's name remains a viable option under sports management consideration. His arrival as a free agent after his time at Manchester City allows the Madrid-based club to focus negotiations on the player's contract terms.

The next steps depend on discussions between the parties and the competition from other European clubs. If talks progress, John Stones could become one of Atlético's defensive reinforcements for the upcoming season following his spell at Manchester City.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Stones gusta a Simeone