Everton have been linked to some questionable deals of late.
The Toffees are targeting a string of English players on large salaries, with The I Paper claiming that Everton admire Ben White and Liam Delap – along with John Stones.
Manchester City have already announced the former Toffee will be released this summer when his contract expires, but having made just 16 appearances this season due to injuries, a deal would be risky for Everton.
Regardless, former England and Chelsea defender Gary Cahill believes Everton could get themselves a “Rolls Royce” of a footballer if they do take the gamble on John Stones.
Would a return for John Stones on a free make any sense for Everton? 🧐
His experience could prove priceless! 🏆
Gary Cahill hails John Stones
While analysing England’s defensive options ahead of the World Cup this summer at an event for Panini, Cahill said: “John Stones, I know, obviously, he’s been injured, he’s not had as much game time, but he’s an absolute Rolls Royce when he’s fit.”
Dean Jones says Everton are “determined” to sign Stones on a free transfer this summer, valuing his experience and pedigree in the game above his fitness doubts.
Jarrad Branthwaite also suffered a hamstring setback in the recent Merseyside derby, so David Moyes could use a defender who is comfortable in possession like Stones as the Everton No.32 focuses on recovering properly.
Even on a free, it would require a large financial commitment from The Friedkin Group to take this deal on, considering the England international is earning £250,000-a-week at Manchester City right now.
Free agents typically receive a large salary when signing for a new club as well, due to the lack of a transfer fee. That is exactly why James Tarkowski makes £120,000-a-week, having arrived for free in July 2022 after his terms with Burnley expired.
So, Stones could even manage to land himself a pay rise after leaving Manchester City.
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Everton are only three points off sixth, though… 🤔
Despite all of the aforementioned concerns, Stones – who Grealish messaged after his departure from the Etihad Stadium was confirmed – is undoubtedly one of the best in the Premier League when he is able to get on the pitch, so we feel it is worth the risk.
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