Chelsea join Arsenal in transfer battle for John Stones

Football TodayTue, July 21, 2026 at 12:15 PM UTC·1 min read

Chelsea have joined Arsenal in the race to sign John Stones.

According to The Athletic, the Blues have added the England international to their list of summer targets.

Chelsea want to add more ready-made players to the squad and Stones fit their requirements.

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They are receptive to offers for Axel Disasi and Trevoh Chalobah as they look to revamp their defence for next season.

Chelsea have made an official enquiry for Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix, but the financial costs for a deal could be a major stumbling block.

Palace want £55m to sanction a sale, and Chelsea’s valuation is below that figure.

The Blues could bring in two centre-backs this summer depending on exits.

Arsenal are in the market for a new defender after William Saliba picked up a serious injury while playing for France at the World Cup.

The 25-year-old is yet to be assessed by the Gunners, but there are fears he could be out for four to five months.

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They have been heavily linked with Stones as a stop-gap solution. The 32-year-old is available to sign on a free transfer after his contract with Manchester City expired last month.

Stones left City as one of the most decorated defenders in the club’s modern history.

He made 295 appearances across all competitions, helping his side win six Premier League titles and the Champions League trophy in 2023.

Stats from Transfermarkt.