Defender Stones joins Inter Milan on free transfer

England defender John Stones has signed a two‑year contract with Serie A champions Inter Milan on a free transfer after his Manchester City deal expired at the end of June. The 32‑year‑old centre‑back spent ten seasons at City, making 295 appearances and scoring 19 goals after arriving from Everton for £47.5 million in 2016. During his time at the Etihad he helped the club win six Premier League titles, the Champions League, two FA Cups, five League Cups, three Community Shields, the Club World Cup and the UEFA Super Cup. Reflecting on his departure, Stones said he had "lived each my dreams out" after contributing to those trophies. Since becoming a free agent, Stones attracted interest from several European sides, including Chelsea and Juventus, before opting for Inter. Inter were crowned Serie A champions for the 21st time last season and will begin their title defence against newly promoted Monza on Saturday, 22 August. Stones has also been a regular for England, earning 93 caps and featuring in the national team that finished third at this summer’s World Cup, starting the quarter‑final victory over Norway and playing in the 2‑1 semi‑final loss to Argentina.