John Stones has already told Everton exactly why they should sign ‘incredible’ Man City star
David Moyes could use some comments from John Stones as inspiration to sign a Manchester City player in January.
Everton drew against Sunderland on Monday Night Football, after Granit Xhaka’s long-range strike cancelled out Iliman Ndiaye’s opener.
The Toffees were pleased with a point at the Stadium of Light after the hosts threatened to score a winner in the second half, but Everton’s scoring problems were highlighted once more.
Thierno Barry missed a gilt-edge opportunity to double his side’s lead in the first half, while Beto also failed to have an impact from the bench.
That is why Everton are targeting a striker in January, and it isn’t the only position Moyes is looking to strengthen.
Everton should try sign Nathan Ake from Manchester City
Following Jarrad Branthwaite’s injury, Everton’s lack of centre-back cover has been exposed, with Michael Keane partnering James Tarkowski.
Meanwhile, with Jake O’Brien being used as a makeshift right-back, the Toffees are dangerously short in this position, and it’s why a new defender must be signed in January.
Everton were linked with Nathan Ake, but after watching his game time decline, he’s someone they should go back in for.
The Dutchman, who has only played 391 minutes across five appearances this term, is available for around £26million.
That is according to Caught Offside, who state that Ake is open to leaving the Etihad Stadium to guarantee playing time ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
As it stands, the 30-year-old has attracted interest from Crystal Palace, Juventus and Inter Milan, but Everton should certainly join the race for his signature.
What John Stones has said about Nathan Ake
Ake’s versatility and qualities as a ball-playing defender make him the ideal partner for Tarkowski in defence, while rivalling Branthwaite.
| Nathan Ake’s stats per 90 past year |
| 6.82 progressive passes |
| 93.8% pass completion |
| 3.15 clearances |
| 1.4 progressive carries |
| 0.96 tackles |
| 1.75 aerials won |
The former Bournemouth man has also won almost every honour possible at Man City, including the Champions League in 2023.
An asset at carrying the ball and excellent at reading the game, Ake would improve Moyes’ defence tenfold, as highlighted by comments made by former Everton star John Stones.
“His journey as a player from Chelsea to Bournemouth to City wasn’t easy for him and now he’s absolutely flying, and I couldn’t be happier for him,” Stones said via The National in 2024.
“He’s an incredible professional, and first and foremost an incredible person. Everyone loves him and loves to be around him. His energy is great. He has grown off the pitch and it’s followed him onto the pitch.
“The attributes he brings to the game are incredible. He’s so good one versus one and so is his decision making.”