Chelsea are contemplating a move for free agent John Stones following his Manchester City exit, talkSPORT understands.
The 32-year-old is enjoying some respite after his exploits with England at the World Cup.
Stones, who started last week’s semi-final defeat to Argentina, is pondering his next move after a trophy-laden decade at the Etihad Stadium.
Chelsea are understood to be interested in bringing the experienced centre-back to Stamford Bridge this summer.
New boss Xabi Alonso has made clear his intention to bolster Chelsea’s defensive options ahead of the new Premier League season.
And the Blues will hope Stones could have a similar impact to former defender Thiago Silva when he arrived at the club in 2020, aged 35 should they formalise their interest in the six-time Premier League winner.
Stones is one of multiple centre-backs Alonso is keeping close tabs on.
The Spaniard is on the lookout for players who can have an immediate impact on the first-team squad.
Chelsea could face competition from Premier League champions Arsenal who themselves have shown an interest in the former Everton and Manchester City defender.
The Gunners could be without first-choice centre-back William Saliba for an extended period after he limped out of France’s World Cup semi-final with Spain with a back injury.
It could see Stones link up once again with Mikel Arteta following their time together at City.
Stones was fundamental for the Three Lions this summer despite being reduced to a bit-part role in his final season under Pep Guardiola.
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He was reduced to just 18 appearances across all competitions last season, clocking up just 439 minutes of Premier League action.
Following England’s heroic 3-2 win over Mexico earlier this month, Stones revealed he has been physically ready to play top level matches for some time.
“I’ve been ready to go since earlier in the year,” he said. “I’ve not had the opportunity, which is what it is. I’m frustrated when I don’t play. I want to play.”
Meanwhile, Chelsea are continuing talks with Saliba’s international teammate Maxence Lacroix over a move away from Crystal Palace and view that as more of a priority over any potential move for Stones.
Palace chiefs are understood to want around £60million for the Frenchman who replaced Saliba after suffering his injury.
Chelsea’s lavish spending shows no signs of slowing down following the £117million acquisition of Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa and their £45m signing of Marco Palestra from Atalanta.
