England defender John Stones is closing in on a move to Inter Milan, with the Serie A champions in advanced talks over a two-year deal following his release from Manchester City. The update sharpens the picture from earlier reports of "positive discussions," with Inter now understood to be leading the race for his signature ahead of rivals Chelsea and Juventus, as Stones nears a decision on his next club after his contract at the Etihad expired at the end of June.

The 32-year-old centre-half made 295 appearances for City after joining from Everton for £47.5m in 2016, winning six Premier League titles, the Champions League, two FA Cups, five League Cups, three Community Shields, the Club World Cup and the Uefa Super Cup. A former Barnsley player, he has earned 93 England caps and was part of the squad that finished third at the recent World Cup, making him one of the summer's most prominent free agents alongside players such as Mohamed Salah and Jadon Sancho.