Could John Stones make a dramatic Everton return?
John Stones Linked with Sensational Everton Return Amid Chelsea Interest in Branthwaite
Take it with caution, but according to The Mirror’s Simon Mullock, John Stones could be in line for a dramatic return to Everton this summer. Stones, who spent three seasons at Goodison Park before his £47.5 million move to Manchester City in 2016, is reportedly on Everton’s radar once again.
City staff are said to be growing increasingly frustrated with the defender’s persistent injury issues. Over the past two Premier League campaigns, Stones has managed just 18 starts. Despite his injury setbacks, the 30-year-old has played a pivotal role in Pep Guardiola’s trophy-laden era, winning six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the Champions League.
Stones began his top-flight career with Everton, having been signed from Barnsley for a reported £3 million. He made 95 appearances for the Toffees and earned his first England cap during his time at the club. Since then, he has gone on to represent England 83 times, playing in two European Championship finals in 2020 and 2024.
With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, regular playing time is now a top priority for Stones. Given his injury record and City’s recent investment in young defenders like Vitor Reis and Abdukodir Khusanov, his role at the Etihad has diminished. City are reportedly open to a sale.
Stones has just one year remaining on his £250,000-a-week contract and would need to accept a significant pay cut to reunite with David Moyes at Goodison. However, City are unlikely to demand a high fee, acknowledging the player’s need for consistent minutes to remain in England contention.
Chelsea Circle as Everton Step Up Stones Interest
Everton’s interest in Stones appears to have intensified amid growing speculation that Chelsea are eyeing a move for young centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite. Chelsea recently beat Everton to the signing of striker Liam Delap, and new manager Enzo Maresca is now reportedly targeting the 22-year-old defender, who has made 86 appearances for the Merseyside club.
Last summer, Everton rejected multiple bids of up to £50 million from Manchester United for Branthwaite. The club now values him at around £70 million and would only consider selling to a Champions League club. Still, manager David Moyes remains reluctant to part with one of his key players.
Branthwaite was a standout performer in the second half of the season, forming a reliable partnership with James Tarkowski. Along with goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, the defensive trio were instrumental in Everton conceding just 44 league goals—a record bettered by only three teams.
While retaining Branthwaite would be ideal due to his potential and recent performances, the financial return from his sale could help fund a much-needed squad overhaul. Several Everton players are out of contract this summer, and reinforcements are essential.
Bringing back Stones could be a shrewd move. Not only is he a seasoned professional with top-level experience, but he also offers versatility—able to play at centre-back, right-back, or even in a holding midfield role. However, his injury history does raise valid concerns.
With the transfer window open and Everton facing key decisions, how they approach the potential exits and arrivals will be pivotal. The ball is firmly in their court.
