Arsenal considering John Stones as short-term fix if William Saliba’s injury proves to be serious | OneFootball

Arsenal are considering a move for John Stones if William Saliba’s injury proves to be serious, according to the Sun.

He could miss up to five months after aggravating a back injury at the 2026 World Cup.

The Gunners are now desperate to bring a top replacement to the club. Arsenal are eyeing Stones after he became a free agent following his departure from Man City.

The ‘incredible‘ centre-back made history at the World Cup after becoming the first-ever unattached player to play for England.

The 32-year-old played in the round of 16, quarter-final and semi-final, starting and finishing the games against Norway and Argentina.

Stones proved his quality with some fine performances, and he has what it takes to play for Arsenal.

The Englishman can also feature as a defensive midfielder and right-back. Manager Mikel Arteta knows him from their time together at Man City, and a reunion could be on the cards.

There are questions over Stones’ fitness after he made just 18 appearances across all competitions last term. He started just 11 of the 76 Premier League matches in the last two campaigns.

However, he told the BBC at the start of the World Cup that he was fit enough to play as many games as possible last term.

Stones claimed Pep Guardiola opted against playing him regularly, which is understandable given the options available.

He will be desperate to prove himself elsewhere, and joining the Premier League champions could appeal to him.

The Englishman will need guarantees of regular playing opportunities at his next club, and it is unclear whether that will be available at Arsenal.