Big changes are expected in Spurs’ defence this summer, and with key players linked with moves away, the club may need a new leader at the back who fits De Zerbi’s style of football. Manchester City defender John Stones could soon become a free agent, and his experience and leadership make him another strong option as Tottenham look to rebuild their defence ahead of next season.
Tottenham Hotspur are already planning ahead for a busy summer window, with reports suggesting deals are in place for Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi, although both depend on the club staying in the Premier League. Because of that uncertainty, even if those signings go through, Spurs still face a much bigger issue in defence, especially with questions around several key players.
Cristian Romero has been linked with a possible exit, Micky van de Ven’s future is not fully clear, and Radu Dragusin could also move on, which means Tottenham may not just need one or two changes, but a full reshaping of their defensive line as they try to build a more stable team under Roberto De Zerbi.
That rebuild is already being planned, with Robertson and Senesi both expected to arrive on free transfers if Spurs avoid relegation, but the situation remains tight as the club continues to fight near the bottom of the table, making Premier League survival crucial for De Zerbi to properly start his overhaul for the 2026/27 season.
Even if those deals are completed, Spurs would still lack depth and experience at the back, and that is where John Stones becomes a serious option, especially as the Manchester City defender is now being linked with an exit after a long spell at the club.
Stones has been a key part of Pep Guardiola’s successful side and has played an important role in big games over the years, which makes his experience at the highest level a natural fit for Tottenham to consider.
This is not a new idea either, as the Lilywhites have shown interest in him before, including a previous attempt to sign him back in 2020, which shows he has been on their radar for a long time as they look to strengthen their defence.
John Stones’ situation at Manchester City and Tottenham interest
John Stones is now being discussed as a possible target for Tottenham because his long spell at City looks close to ending after ten years at the club, where he became an important player under Guardiola and a key part of one of the most successful periods in City’s history.
Since joining from Everton in 2016 for £47.5m, Stones has made almost 300 appearances for City and played a major role in their success, winning six Premier League titles, the Champions League, and several domestic trophies while becoming one of Guardiola’s most trusted defenders.
However, after many successful years at the Etihad Stadium, his situation now appears to be changing, with reports suggesting his contract will expire this summer and no new deal currently agreed, meaning he could leave the club at the end of the season.
As speculation around his future continues to grow, Stones recently reflected on his time at Manchester City in an emotional message, describing the club as his “home for life” and saying he had “lived all my dreams out” during his ten years there. He also praised Guardiola for helping shape his career and turning him into the player he is today.
With his future now uncertain, several clubs are reportedly monitoring his situation ahead of a possible free transfer, and Spurs are among the sides being linked with interest as they prepare for major defensive changes this summer.
That interest is understandable given Stones’ experience at the highest level, his calmness in possession, and his ability to step into midfield when needed, all of which suit the style De Zerbi wants from his defenders as the Lilywhites continue their rebuild ahead of next season.
Should Spurs move for John Stones?
Tottenham’s reported interest in John Stones might seem understandable because of their need to strengthen defensively, but there are strong reasons why this would not be a good signing under De Zerbi, especially at this stage of the rebuild.
The main concern is his injury record over recent seasons at Manchester City, where he has missed a significant number of games. Spurs already struggle with fitness problems across the squad, so signing another defender who cannot be relied on to stay fit would not improve the situation and could add more uncertainty to the back line.
Even though Stones brings top-level experience and has won major trophies under Pep Guardiola, Tottenham are now focused on building a younger and more consistent squad for the future. Because of that, it does not make sense to bring in a player who may not be available every week, even if his quality is proven.
That point also connects to Luka Vuskovic, who is seen as one of the club’s most exciting young defenders and a key part of the long-term plan. If Stones were to join, especially alongside other defensive signings, it could reduce Vuskovic’s chances of playing regular first-team football and slow his development.
For these reasons, even as a free transfer, Stones does not look like the right signing for Tottenham. The club would be better off targeting younger defenders who are more reliable physically and can develop alongside the rest of the squad over time.