Napoli decide against signing John Stones
The Italian club has abandoned a move for the Manchester City defender due to his high financial demands.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Author: Clément Bucco-Lechat
Napoli have decided not to pursue a deal for Manchester City central defender John Stones. Despite the 32-year-old approaching free agency, the two parties were unable to reach an agreement regarding financial terms.
According to reports from Alfredo Pedullà, the player's representatives offered his services to the Neapolitan club. However, negotiations stalled over salary expectations. Stones is reportedly seeking around 8 million euros per year, a figure that falls outside the budget plans of the Italian runners-up.
For Napoli, who are currently assessing their options for squad reinforcement, these demands proved to be a stumbling block. Given their current financial structure, the club chose to walk away from the potential transfer.
John Stones is departing Manchester City after a decade at the club, during which he secured six Premier League titles and the Champions League. The club has previously confirmed that his contract will not be renewed. A return to Everton, where he played before joining City, is currently being cited as a potential next destination.