Serie A Trio AC Milan, Napoli And Como In Talks For Manchester City Defender John Stones
AC Milan, Napoli and Como are all considering a swoop for John Stones, but they're not alone.
Giuseppe Labellarte
Updated on 20 January 2026
Manchester City defender John Stones has emerged as a transfer target for Serie A trio AC Milan, Napoli and Como.
The Manchester City defender is out of contract at the end of the season and he is reportedly considering his options.
Stones’ camp are now working on a number of options for their client, with many suitors from all around the world.
Why Serie A trio AC Milan, Napoli and Como are eyeing Manchester City defender John Stones
English outlet TEAMtalk have reported that AC Milan, Napoli and Como have all been spoken to about a potential deal for John Stones.
Meanwhile, Speculation linking Inter and Stones was doing the rounds in October.
The Manchester City veteran is open to a move abroad, making the possibility of a switch to Serie A realistic for his Italian suitors.
Milan are often linked with experienced defenders, especially players who can build attacks from the back under pressure.
John #Stones is ready to leave #ManchesterCity as a free agent at the end of the season. #transfers #MCFC
— Nicolò Schira (@NicoSchira) January 20, 2026
Napoli, meanwhile, have shown in recent years they will shop abroad for top-level defenders who can handle big European nights.
Como are the surprise name. They have strong backing and have tried to make bold signings to push their project forward.
For instance, Como have Nico Paz in their ranks. He has been doing so well that Real Madrid reportedly want him back.
A switch to Serie A could also suit Stones’ style. The league can be tactical, with more focus on positioning than constant sprinting.
Who else is competing for John Stones alongside Serie A giants
Milan, Napoli and Como are just a few of the suitors interested in John Stones.
When a player as good as Stones can be snapped up for free at the end of the season, many clubs will invariably take an interest.
Atletico Madrid have reportedly also been in contact with Stones’ camp, while Bayern Munich are also circling.
In addition, Stones has interest from the English Premier League, with more than six clubs keen including former employers Everton.
There is also the option of Saudi Arabia’s Pro League and the MLS in the United States.
For now, Stones is focusing fully on Manchester City with a view to making England’s 2026 World Cup squad.
However, the summer could see interest in Stones intensify further.
Giuseppe Labellarte
Giuseppe Labellarte is a sports journalist with over a decade of professional experience in the industry. His main professional expertise is in soccer. Prior to joining FootItalia, he worked for the likes of Sports Mole, TBR Football, the Chelsea Chronicle and numerous other sites, along with having bylines in the likes of the Nottingham Post. He holds degrees in Journalism and International Relations.
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