Chelsea are considering a move for John Stones after his release by Manchester City following the expiry of his contract.
The 32-year-old central defender is available on a free this summer, and is now enjoying downtime after representing England at the World Cup, including starting in their semi-final exit to Argentina.
Chelsea’s interest comes a month after club sources tried to kill off rumours circulating within football circles that they were looking at Stones. However, he is now a legitimate candidate, it can be confirmed.
Chelsea have benefited from having experienced heads in defence before, such as Thiago Silva. However, Arsenal have also been linked with Stones, who is reportedly seen as a possible short-term option if William Saliba’s injury proves serious.
Chelsea have been in talks for Maxence Lacroix, with negotiations even held at ownership level in a meeting between Behdad Eghbali and Steve Parish at a hotel in New York.
John Stones played in five of England’s World Cup matches, including the agonising semi-final exit to Argentina
Palace want around £60million for the 26-year-old who was with France at the World Cup. Como’s Jacobo Ramon, 21, is also a candidate who has featured on Chelsea’s shortlist for some time.
While chasing at least one central-defender signing, Chelsea have long maintained that their highly-rated academy graduate Josh Acheampong is not for sale despite multiple approaches.
However, the 20-year-old would be forgiven for wondering whether he will receive meaningful minutes in the upcoming season, with Chelsea having fallen out of European football. Sources close to Acheampong believe he is ready to play.
Chelsea are scheduled to fly to Sydney, Australia at the end of this week to begin their pre-season tour under Xabi Alonso. The club have not yet confirmed their travelling squad.
Chelsea are still waiting for several of their World Cup representatives to return with players entitled to three-week breaks. Some with loan options, particularly among the youngsters from Cobham, could also be left at home to focus on finalising that opportunity.
