Arsenal lining up shock free transfer for England World Cup star John Stones as William Saliba injury replacement

ARSENAL are considering John Stones as a short-term freebie fix if William Saliba’s injury proves to be serious. Saliba’s suspected back issue is yet to be assessed by the Gunners but there are fears he could be out for up to five months. John Stones has become an option for Arsenal Credit: Getty He is seen as a short-term fix following William Saliba’s injury Credit: EPA The 25-year-old was forced off with the long-standing problem during France’s semi-final defeat to Spain when the pain became unbearable. It has seen the Premier League champions turn their attention to free agent Stones as a possible option that would not break the bank. Sign up for the Arsenal newsletter Thank you! Boss Mikel Arteta knows the 32-year-old well having worked with him at Manchester City during his time as Pep Guardiola’s assistant. Stones left City after ten years at the end of June and made history at the World Cup by becoming the first-ever unattached player to play for England. After a shaky first game against Croatia – having barely featured for City in 2026 – Stones impressed during the knockout stages. He started both the quarter-final against Norway, shackling close pal Erling Haaland, and the semi-final versus Argentina. Stones and his representatives will weigh up his options now the World Cup is over, with interest in him understood to be at home and abroad. Having started just four games since November for City, game-time is likely to be a big factor in where the ex-Everton man goes next. Most read in Sport WORLD CUP 2026 FREE BETS AND SIGN UP OFFERS But the prospect of linking up again with Arteta’s reigning champions could be attractive, should Arsenal accelerate their interest. It comes after the Gunners’ transfer plans took a big hit as long-term target Morgan Rogers was snapped up by Chelsea. A fee of £117million was agreed between the Blues and Aston Villa, with Rogers set to become the most expensive British player. A medical is scheduled to go ahead on Monday upon his return from the World Cup. The Full Arsenal on YouTube SunSport have launched a dedicated Arsenal channel on YouTube! The Full Arsenal Podcast is your home for everything about the Gunners. From match reactions and tactical breakdowns to transfer talk, match previews, tactical analysis and honest fan debate… The Full Arsenal covers it all. Subscribe to The Full Arsenal here Arsenal ticket and hospitality deals GET tickets to see Arsenal home games with these official deals. The packages include optional upgrades to VIP hospitality. 21 Aug v Coventry City — BOOK HERE 6 Sep v Chelsea — BOOK HERE 10 Oct v Leeds United — BOOK HERE 24 Oct v Everton — BOOK HERE 7 Nov v Hull City — BOOK HERE More games available here. *If you click on a link in this article, we will earn affiliate revenue. Comment now