Manchester City were left a little red-faced after UEFA’s website all but confirmed the signing of John Stones. Now the club have announced the signing of the player themselves with their hand having been forced.
The player arrives from Everton after a long and dragged out saga where both parties were unwilling to negotiate. But now an agreement has been reached and the player has signed for the Sky Blues.
Stones becomes CIty’s 8th summer signing, joining the likes of Ilkay Gundogan, Leroy Sane, Gabriel Jesus among others. Stones’ fee has been reported to be £47.5 million which is just short of David Luiz’ record fee paid by PSG to Chelsea.
Stones will wear the No. 24 jersey and has signed a 6-year contract which will keep him at the club until 2022.
Stones spoke to mancity.com after completing the transfer.
Also Read: Stones included in UEFA’s website before his signing was completed
"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.”
Earlier UEFA had included the player’s name on their official website after the club had submitted the squad list for before the start of their UEFA Champions league qualifying campaign today.
Pep Guardiola also spoke after he secured an important target. "I like the way he plays the game and I'm looking forward to welcoming him into the squad.”
The director of football Txiki Begiristain gave his statement. “John is an excellent defender and we are all really pleased he is joining us. We have worked hard to bring him to City, and we feel we are signing one of the best young central defenders in Europe.”
