Everton plot bold John Stones reunion as Moyes targets European push

File this under ambition with a dash of nostalgia: Everton are working on a deal to bring John Stones back to Merseyside, and it could be exactly the sort of seasoned addition David Moyes needs to turn a promising campaign into a bona fide European run.

Everton circle Stones as Etihad exit looms

Word from talkSPORT is that Stones’ Manchester City chapter is close to the final page. The England international, understood to be on around £250,000 per week, is out of contract this summer and, after a bruising run with injuries, a renewal looks a long shot. At 31, he still fancies the Premier League grind, and Everton believe a reunion could suit all parties.

Why Moyes wants him back

It’s been a lively first season at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, and Moyes’ recruitment has largely steadied the ship after too many campaigns peering over the relegation cliff. Michael Keane is set to be out of contract in the summer, James Tarkowski isn’t getting younger, and Jarrad Branthwaite is blossoming into one of the country’s brightest young centre-halves. Stones would be the ideal on-pitch tutor and dressing-room standard-setter for the lad.

Talks held, timing key

For those tracking the market via the best betting sites, this one is warming up: talks have already been held, and Stones is open to the move while sensibly surveying his options. The Toffees know pace matters — get it done before a summer shop window tempts rival bidders.

Wages, fit, and the Branthwaite effect

Given his limited minutes and fitness history, Stones is unlikely to command City-level wages this time around, which pries the door open for Everton. Slot him alongside Branthwaite and you’ve got a blend of calm distribution, aerial nous and big-stage know-how. Make no mistake: bringing back a six-time Premier League winner and Champions League holder would be a statement of intent.

Grealish chatter and a £60m forward

There’s noise, too, about Everton exploring an attacking marquee move — Grealish’s name keeps bubbling up — while separate whispers suggest the club are eyeing a ‘phenomenal’ Premier League forward around the £60m mark. However that shakes out, Stones feels like the cornerstone signing that lets the rest of the puzzle click into place.

Final word

Everton’s upward curve under Moyes has been built on savvy deals and a clearer identity. Add a fit and focused Stones to that mix and the Toffees won’t just be browsing Europe — they’ll be banging on the door.