Hansi Flick’s Barcelona are looking to sign Manchester City defensive mainstay John Stones on a free transfer next summer.
John Stones’s future has become a big talking point because of his contract situation. The English international has entered the final year of his deal with Manchester City, and all signs suggest he could leave the club next summer as a free agent.
Barcelona have emerged as a potential destination for the 31-year-old, and according to a report from Fichajes, the reigning La Liga champions are eyeing a Bosman move for the former Everton centre-back.
Stones joined Manchester City in the summer of 2026 from Everton in a deal worth £47.5 million. The Englishman has only gone from strength to strength since, and he has played a big part in all the success they have had in recent years.
While Stones was one of the first names on their team sheet a few seasons back, things have not been that great for him of late. The English utility man has struggled with injuries, and he has slowly lost prominence in the team. The 31-year-old centre-back has been on the bench in three out of their last four Premier League outings.
Stones to leave Manchester City for Barcelona?
With his contract running out at the end of the season, there are question marks over John Stones’s future at the club. While Manchester City are considering opening renewal talks, it will be interesting to see if both parties can reach a common ground.
More importantly, Stones is unlikely to be a regular starter at the club going forward; as a result, the English international might choose to part ways with clubs like Barcelona keen on his signature.
Following the departure of Inigo Martinez in the summer, Hansi Flick’s team have struggled at the back and they need more quality. Stones could be a perfect fit for them. The 31-year-old has a wealth of experience, and he still has a few years left in him.
More importantly, they can secure his services for free, which is a massive boost given their recent financial concerns. The Catalan giants are closely monitoring his situation, and they will certainly try to lure him away. Meanwhile, the Blaugrana are also keeping tabs on alternatives in case they miss out on the Manchester City utility man or if he ends up signing an extension.
