Manchester City are preparing to open negotiations with John Stones over a new contract, with both the player and Pep Guardiola eager to extend his stay at the Etihad Stadium.

The England international is currently out of contract at the end of the season, but there is optimism that fresh terms can be agreed.

Stones, 31, has been a central figure throughout Guardiola’s trophy-laden era in Manchester.

Since joining from Everton in 2016 for £48 million, he has won 15 major honours, including six Premier League titles, and played a vital role in the club’s Treble triumph in 2023.

John Stones committed to City future

Talks are expected to focus on a deal that would keep the centre-back at City until 2028, effectively securing the remainder of his career in Manchester.

City chairman Khaldoon Al-Mubarak is determined to avoid the risk of losing Stones on a free transfer next summer, while the player himself has made clear his desire to remain at the club where he has become one of the world’s most accomplished defenders.

In total, Stones has made 281 appearances for City, while also winning 83 England caps since his debut in 2014. Despite fitness issues at times, he has been a constant presence for Guardiola when available and remains a player trusted in the biggest of games.

The defender’s close relationship with Guardiola has been a defining factor in his success, with the manager often praising Stones’ intelligence and adaptability in key tactical roles.

Looking ahead

Although forced to withdraw from the latest England squad through injury, Stones is expected to feature prominently for the Three Lions under Thomas Tuchel should they secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada.

For City, securing Stones’ future would represent another step in maintaining stability at the back as they continue to build around both experience and youth in their pursuit of further domestic and European glory.