Leeds United ‘interested in’ John Stones as Muharemovic reshapes defence | OneFootball

Tarik Muharemovic has joined Leeds United for £34m on a five-year deal from Sassuolo, becoming the club’s second most expensive signing. His arrival reshapes the defence after Pascal Struijk’s £20m move to Brighton.

According to the BBC, Leeds have explored a move for England international John Stones, now a free agent after his contract at the Etihad expired this summer.

United looked into Stones towards the end of last season, although his wages were always likely to be a stumbling block.

Muharemovic now lines up with Joe Rodon and Jaka Bijol in what could be Daniel Farke’s preferred back three if he sticks with the system that served the side well in the second half of last season.

James Justin and Sebastiaan Bornauw provide further cover at centre-back, and captain Ethan Ampadu can drop into defence if required.

With the new signing in place, the defensive picture at Elland Road has shifted and it would be a surprise if Leeds moved for another centre-back this summer.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk