Inter Milan are nearing the acquisition of defender John Stones on a free transfer after the 32-year-old left Manchester City in June. Both Inter and Juventus had shown interest in the England international prior to last year’s World Cup, but Inter have taken the lead, bolstered by Stones’s strong performances for England, who reached the semi-finals.

Stones, who appeared 13 times for Manchester City during the 2022-2023 season before a December injury sidelined him for two months, found limited opportunities under then-manager Pep Guardiola after his recovery, making just five additional appearances. At the World Cup, England coach Thomas Tuchel chose Stones to start the opening match against Croatia, although he was subsequently benched, returning as a substitute in knockout wins over the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Mexico. Stones then started in the quarter-final win against Norway and the narrow 2-1 semi-final defeat to Argentina.

Speaking at the end of last season, Stones expressed his determination to continue playing at the highest level, citing his physical readiness and willingness to embrace new challenges. “I still feel I have so much to give a club and I feel in a good moment physically,” he said. “There is a lot for me still to fight for in my career and a new challenge will be exciting. I’m keeping an open mind.”

Meanwhile, Manchester City are optimistic about securing a contract extension for midfielder Rodri, whose current deal expires next June. However, the club is preparing for the possibility of a formal offer from Real Madrid. The Spanish club has shown increased interest in the 30-year-old following his leadership in captaining Spain to their World Cup triumph.

Despite City putting forward a renewal proposal some time ago, Rodri has not yet committed to a new contract, though talks are ongoing and the club remains hopeful. Concerns about Rodri's durability, stemming from injury issues over the past two seasons, have eased, although he is scheduled for back surgery after recently returning from North America.

Rodri himself has hinted at openness to a move to Real Madrid, stating in March: “Having played for Atlético before would not prevent me from playing for Real Madrid. There are other players who have done that before. Maybe not direct transfers, but eventually. You can’t turn down one of the world’s best clubs.”

The situation with both players underscores a potentially significant summer of transfers involving Manchester City, as they prepare for future squad planning amidst interest from top European clubs.