Chelsea ready to ruin Arsenal's William Saliba replacement plan

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Matthew Judge | Editor

Chelsea are weighing up a move for John Stones as they press ahead with plans to bolster their defence this summer, according to The Athletic.

The same publication claims the Blues could sign up to two central defenders ahead of the 2026-27 season, depending on outgoings.

And one player who they are considering is England international Stones, who is a free agent following his exit from Manchester City.

The Athletic claims Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso is keen to inject experience into what is a young dressing room ahead of his maiden campaign in charge.

And Stones is someone who fits the bill, having made 257 Premier League appearances across spells with Man City and Everton.

The 32-year-old also made five appearances for England at this summer’s World Cup as the Three Lions achieved their best finish since 1966.

Arsenal have also been linked with a move for Stones

Chelsea’s interest in Stones follows loose speculation suggesting Arsenal are also keen on signing the centre-back as cover for William Saliba.

Saliba had to be withdrawn in France’s World Cup semi-final loss to Spain last Tuesday after a pre-existing back injury was exacerbated.

BBC Sport understands surgery is among the options being considered by Arsenal, with an operation likely leading to a long spell on the sidelines.

Both The Athletic and The Times claim the Premier League champions are admirers of Stones’ England team-mate Ezri Konsa.

However, the same two publications understand Aston Villa’s €70million (£60m) valuation of the 28-year-old remains prohibitive for Arsenal.

Konsa has developed a reputation as one of the Premier League’s finest defenders with Unai Emery’s Villa.

The former Brentford man played a key role in helping Villa win the Europa League last season - the club’s first European silverware since 1982.

Konsa has made 286 appearances in all competitions for the Villa Park club, scoring 12 goals. He has also earned 28 caps for England.