Inter hits John Stones for defense: from Pavard to Romero, the point
According to Tuttomercatoweb.
Context
John Stones, an England international, is expected in Milan to undergo a medical before signing a two-year contract with Inter. His arrival is seen as an immediate solution to the gaps in the defense, while the club evaluates the remaining options in the transfer market.
Why this matters
John Stones' arrival at Inter is a significant step in strengthening the team's defense, especially following the departures of Stefan de Vrij and Francesco Acerbi. The signing of the English defender, who is free, will allow Inter to stabilize its defensive sector and improve competitiveness in the next Serie A season. Stones brings experience and quality, which could be crucial for the club's goals in the Italian league.
Main conclusions
- Inter hits John Stones for defense: from Pavard to Romero, the point.
- Inter plans the arrival of John Stones at zero cost, with a two-year deal and the green light from Oaktree.
- Inter, split with Stones. From Pavard to Romero, it's the southernmost point.
Inter took the decisive step for John Stones and is preparing to sign the currently free defender, in an operation that should immediately reinforce the defensive sector after the departures of Stefan de Vrij and Francesco Acerbi. According to information gathered in Italy, the deal is in its final formalities: there is a green light from owner Oaktree and the Nerazzurri have put a two-season contract on the table, valued at 4.5 million euros plus bonuses. The player, who is still on vacation, is expected in Milan in the coming days to undergo medical examinations before signing.
Stones' imminent arrival repositions the remaining pieces of Appiano's defensive dossier. Benjamin Pavard, whose name has been linked to a possible departure, is expected to remain in the squad coached by Cristian Chivu as the fifth defender for now. For the Frenchman to leave the club, a proposal of between 12 and 15 million euros would be necessary; Only then would Inter consider returning to the market to fill the vacancy. Until then, the priority is to integrate the experienced English international and stabilize options for the season ahead.
Stones' impact on planning is equally visible in the Cristian Romero chapter. The signing of the Argentine became an operation of great financial scope — more than 40 million euros for the transfer and with a salary close to 6 million euros net per season — and, given the advance by Stones at zero cost, it immediately lost traction. In practical terms, the Nerazzurri management gains fiscal margin and reduces risk, while ensuring a profile with international experience at the highest level.
One small question mark remains: Stones' physical condition. The central defender went through last season with some muscle problems, but his performances at the World Cup reaffirmed his ability to compete at the top and lead a defensive line. His versatility — comfortable starting construction and defending in different designs — fits Inter's need to reconfigure the rearguard after the departure of two important players in the dressing room.
With Stones close to becoming official, Inter will now face the closure of the defensive market with greater serenity. Pavard will only leave with a financially irrefutable proposal and the Romero hypothesis remains, for now, on the back burner. The next few days, with the Englishman's arrival in Milan for medical and contractual formalities, should clarify the hierarchy of the center of defense and the latest decisions in a window in which financial prudence goes hand in hand with competitive ambition.
What happens next
With the imminent arrival of John Stones, Inter must focus on integrating the player and restructuring their defensive squad. Benjamin Pavard's situation will be monitored, as his departure could open space for new transfers. Furthermore, the possibility of signing Cristian Romero appears to have cooled off, allowing Inter to focus on consolidating their defense with Stones as the centerpiece.
Frequently asked questions
What happened to Inter's signing of John Stones?
Inter took the decisive step towards signing John Stones, who is currently free, and is about to close the deal to reinforce the defense after the departures of Stefan de Vrij and Francesco Acerbi.
Who confirmed the signing of John Stones?
Confirmation of John Stones' signing came from owner Oaktree, who gave the green light to the deal.
Why are Inter signing John Stones now?
Inter are signing John Stones to immediately reinforce the defensive sector following the departures of Stefan de Vrij and Francesco Acerbi.
What are the changes to Inter's defense with Stones' arrival?
With the arrival of John Stones, Benjamin Pavard should remain as fifth defender, while the signing of Cristian Romero loses priority due to the high cost.
What changes for Benjamin Pavard with the arrival of John Stones?
Benjamin Pavard is currently tipped to remain in the squad as the fifth defender, unless a proposal of between 12 and 15 million euros emerges for his departure.