John Stones next club odds: Arsenal favourites to sign free-agent defender

John Stones' decade at Manchester City came to an end this summer when his contract at the Etihad expired, and the 32-year-old centre-back now finds himself as one of the most sought-after free agents in Europe. 

Despite an injury-hit farewell campaign that limited him to a handful of Premier League starts, Stones proved at the World Cup that he still has plenty to offer, featuring in five of England's matches as the Three Lions secured third place in North America. 

With no transfer fee attached to a proven winner, it's little surprise that clubs across the continent are said to be circling. Below are the latest odds for where he could end up.

John Stones next club odds

John Stones – Next Club Odds

According to Sky Bet, Arsenal are favourites to sign Stones in this summer transfer window.

Betting odds for John Stones's next club, sourced from Sky Bet

Club	Odds
ArsenalFavourites	11/10
Chelsea	9/4
Juventus	9/2
Bayern Munich	13/2
Everton	15/2
Inter Milan	9/1	Napoli	12/1

*Odds correct at the time of writing and subject to change. Please gamble responsibly.

Which club is most likely to sign John Stones?

Arsenal lead the betting at 11/10, and there is a clear footballing argument behind their position at the head of the market. Mikel Arteta worked closely with Stones during his time as Pep Guardiola's assistant at Manchester City and knows exactly how to get the best out of the defender.

While William Saliba and Gabriel remain Arsenal's first-choice centre-back pairing, Stones' ability to play in central defence or step into midfield would provide valuable tactical flexibility for a side expected to compete on multiple fronts once again.

Chelsea are next in the market at 9/4, with the Blues continuing to reshape their squad ahead of the new campaign. Stones would bring a wealth of experience to a relatively young defensive unit, while his composure in possession and versatility could make him an attractive option for a club looking to challenge for major honours. His record of winning trophies at the highest level would also add proven leadership to the dressing room.

Italian giants Juventus are priced at 9/2, and a move to Serie A could appeal to a player entering the latter stages of his career. The Bianconeri have often looked to blend experienced internationals with emerging talent, and Stones' reading of the game and technical ability would appear well suited to the slower tactical nature of Italian football.

Bayern Munich, available at 13/2, would offer the prospect of a reunion with Vincent Kompany, who spent three seasons alongside Stones at Manchester City before taking charge of the Bundesliga champions. Bayern are expected to strengthen their defensive options this summer, and Stones' comfort playing out from the back fits naturally with the club's possession-based style.

A return to Everton is priced at 15/2 and remains an attractive storyline. Stones made his name at Goodison Park before completing a £47.5m move to Manchester City in 2016, and a homecoming would see one of the club's most successful academy graduates return with more than a decade of elite-level experience. With no transfer fee involved, Everton could view such a deal as a low-risk opportunity to add quality and leadership to their back line.

Further down the market, Inter Milan are available at 9/1, while reigning Serie A champions Napoli can be backed at 12/1. Both clubs have regularly targeted experienced players capable of making an immediate impact, and Stones' pedigree in domestic and European competition means he is unlikely to be short of options before the transfer window closes.