Mikel Arteta 'playing key role in convincing' John Stones to Arsenal

Arsenal are plotting a surprise move to sign former Manchester City defender John Stones as a free agent in the coming weeks.

The 32-year-old left the Etihad upon the expiry of his contract last month, and is set to weigh up his options following the World Cup, where he helped England to finish third.

Arsenal have now emerged as leading contenders for his signature despite interest from multiple rivals, as they aim to strengthen their defensive depth this summer.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Mikel Arteta is playing a key role in the pursuit of Stones, having worked with him at Man City.

The centre-back's availability on a free transfer is also set to play a key role in what would be a cheap deal, to allow the Gunners to focus their spending elsewhere.

Stones played a big role in England's run to the World Cup semi-final, and if he continues to prove his fitness, could be called upon for a move to Arsenal.

Could Arsenal make a move to sign John Stones?

Stones' availability on a free transfer has placed clubs on alert, as Brown told Football Insider earlier this year that Bayern Munich are plotting a move for the ex-Man City defender.

Arsenal have now become the latest side to explore the possibility, and despite some reservations over the deal, could be tempted to make a move.

Stones, meanwhile, is expected to be open to a move to the Emirates as he weighs up his options following his departure from Man City.

"John Stones to Arsenal is going to be one to watch, it would make a lot of sense," Brown told Football Insider.

"He's available on a free transfer, which is always tempting, especially for a player of his quality and experience which alll the top clubs are always looking to add.

"He knows Mikel Arteta well after their time together at City, so I'm sure the manager will be playing a key role in convincing him of the move.

"Arsenal need at least one centre-back, if not more, and to bring in somebody of Stones' quality would be a boost even if there are a few concerns about his injury record.

"If he can prove his fitness after featuring heavily for England at the World Cup, there is every chance a move to Arsenal could be on, because it makes sense for everybody.

"I'm sure it's something he would be very interested in as well, because the chance to join the Premier League winners is always going to be a draw."

Why are Arsenal interested in signing Stones?

Stones has emerged as a transfer target for Arsenal as they eye multiple defensive signings to shore up Arteta’s back line ahead of the new season.

A lack of quality strength in depth in the position has emerged as a concern, while a major injury to William Saliba has made signing a centre-back a priority.

Saliba suffered a back injury at the World Cup and will undergo surgery, which Football Insider reported could rule him out for around six months.

That will come as a major blow to Arteta’s ambitious plans, given the important role the France international has played in their recent success winning the Premier League.

Stones has now been identified as a potential replacement, with his experience and quality set to be key, although there are others on Arsenal's radar.