Mikel Arteta has already delivered John Stones verdict as Arsenal consider free transfer | OneFootball

William Saliba’s injury concerns could force Arsenal’s hand in the transfer market

Mikel Arteta could turn to a player he "really likes" as Arsenal look to strengthen in defence.

The Gunners went into the summer transfer window with the intention of signing a versatile defender who could play at full-back and also provide cover for the likes of William Saliba and Gabriel centrally.

A final decision on whether he will require surgery on that injury is yet to be made, but a lengthy period on the sidelines appears likely.

Arsenal have been linked with Ezri Konsa and John Stones, players with lots of Premier League experience and who could come straight into the side and quickly get up to speed.

Stones is available as a free agent after leaving Manchester City at the end of his contract.

Arsenal are considering signing him, but Chelsea are among the clubs also interested in the 32-year-old.

Arteta and Stones know each other from their time at City, with the Spaniard joining the club as Pep Guardiola's assistant just a few weeks before Stones was signed in the summer of 2016.

They spent three years working together before Arteta left to take charge of Arsenal.

Free agent: John Stones

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A month later, the Gunners were linked with a move for Stones in the January transfer window.

Arteta shut those rumours down and said there was "no truth at all" to them, but he did still reveal how highly he rates the centre-back.

“John is a player I really like," Arteta said in January 2020.

"We followed him before we signed him when I was at City.

“I worked with him for many years. I know him well and when I look at centre-backs he has many attributes I like, but we are not interested in him.”

That stance could well have changed now, with Stones an appealing free agent option.

His injury record would be a concern for the Gunners, but they could decide that it is worth the risk as a short-term option.

Stones will be enjoying some time off after England's deep run at the World Cup as he ponders his next move.

He was a key part of the City sides that have gone head-to-head with Arsenal in the title race in recent seasons and he had a pointed message for the Gunners in 2024.

I worked with him for many years. I know him well and when I look at centre-backs he has many attributes I like

Mikel Arteta

After scoring a last-gasp equaliser in a 2-2 draw at the Etihad Stadium, Stones spoke out on Arsenal's tactics.

"I don’t know if they have mastered it," Stones said.

"They’ve done it for a few years, and we know to expect that. You can call it clever, or dirty, whichever way you want to put it.

“They break up the game, and it upsets the rhythm for everyone."