City Signs John Stones, Becomes Second Most Expensive Defender In Football History

The 22-year-old signed a six-year deal to remain at the Etihad Stadium, making him the world’s second most expensive defender.

Brazil international David Luiz remains the most expensive defender in history, after he joined Paris St-Germain from Chelsea for £50m in 2014.

Stones becomes City boss Pep Guardiola’s eighth signing of the 2016 summer transfer window, following in the footsteps of Ilkay Gundogan, Nolito, Aleksandar Zinchenko, Aaron Mooy, Leroy Sane, Gabriel Jesus, Marlos Moreno.

Stones, who will take squad number 24, told ManCity.com: “I’m absolutely delighted to sign for City and now the deal’s done I’m looking forward to the next stage in my career.

“I’ve obviously seen what’s going on here at the Etihad, it’s an ambitious Club with a great manager so I can’t wait to get stuck in and help achieve the goals.

“I know it will be tough getting a place in this team but I’m determined to become the best player I can be and help us to success.

“I had a wonderful time with Everton and wish them and their fans all the best but now I’ll give my all for City.”

Stones made 95 appearances for former club Everton in three seasons, scoring once.

Manager Pep Guardiola said: “We want to help John show his quality with us and improve on what he has already achieved.

“I like the way he plays the game and I’m looking forward to welcoming him into the squad.”

City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain, said the club had “worked hard” to sign him and regard him as “one of the best central defenders in Europe”.

Stones represented England at u19, u20 and u21 level before making his senior international debut for the Three Lions on 30 May 2014 in a 3-0 friendly victory over Peru at Wembley.

He is set to feature in City’s first Premier League fixture at home to Sunderland on Saturday.