After much deliberation as to whether the deal had been completed, Manchester City have officially announced the £47.5m permanent transfer of John Stones from Everton.
The former Toffee’s defender has signed a six-year deal with the Citizens, keeping him at the Etihad Stadium until at least 2022.
The 22-year old 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.
Here’s more of the man in his own words:
“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.”
Director of Football, Txiki Begiristain, also expressed his delight in securing the services of the highly rated centre-half, saying: “John is an excellent young English 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 central defenders in Europe.”
Whilst the players form came into question during an iffy season for Everton, Europe’s premier clubs had continued to monitor Stone’s transfer status over the past few months, however City always looked the likely destination for the 22 year old.
Stones is the clubs third attempt at purchasing a centre half partner for Vincent Kompany, with upwards of £120m already spent on the likes of Mangala and Otamendi over the past two seasons. What with his exemplary ball playing skills, Pep will be confident they have found the perfect foil for the Belgian.
The Merseyside born defender the likes of Ilkay Gundogan, Nolito and Leroy Sane in Guardiola’s new look City squad.