Leeds United are looking to strengthen at centre-back following Pascal Struijk’s departure this summer, with the club’s recruitment team assessing a number of defensive targets.
The Whites reluctantly sold the Dutch defender once it became clear that he was not going to sign a new contract, and his departure became necessary before the end of June.
Wolves centre-back Ladislav Krejci has emerged as one of the top options for Leeds this summer. However, the Whites are wary of Wolves’ £40m asking price.
With several positions needing strengthening this summer, Leeds may not have the budget to splurge on a centre-back. However, they could sign an experienced England star on a free transfer to fix a big issue in their team.
Leeds United must consider a move to sign John Stones
John Stones’ performance in England’s 3-2 win over Mexico showed why the centre-back is still a top option at the highest level of football.
The England defender, who joined Manchester City in a deal worth £47.5m in 2016, spent 10 years at the Etihad, winning six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, and three EFL Cups, one Champions League, one UEFA Super Cup and one FIFA Club World Cup.
His contract with Manchester City expired at the end of last season, and the 32-year-old centre-back is now looking for a new club this summer.
He has already shown in the World Cup that, despite his age, he remains a fine defender who can add calmness and experience to a backline.
His representatives are on the lookout for a new club while he continues to perform at the World Cup, and Leeds must get in touch with his camp.
Stones suits the left-footed ball-playing profile Daniel Farke is looking for to replace Struijk in his team ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League season.
This is a golden opportunity for Leeds
Leeds have already signed Harry Wilson on a free transfer, and are still pushing to secure a deal to sign another free agent in Julian Brandt.
Leeds’ transfer budget suggests they cannot afford to pay over the odds for new signings, something reflected in their refusal to meet Southampton’s £30m valuation of Shea Charles.
Leeds also need to strengthen in goal following Karl Darlow’s departure, with the club potentially requiring two new goalkeepers. That leaves them with several key positions to address while working within a limited budget.
This makes John Stones a huge option for Leeds as they could secure an experienced, Premier League-proven centre-back without paying a huge fee.
Leeds could easily save millions in transfer fees if they push to sign the former Manchester City star over Krejci, who suffered relegation with Wolves last season.
Stones could come straight into the team and add a winning mentality and experience to the Leeds backline next season.
He would I just don’t think he is ready for a step down into a side that’s not playing in Europe. If his aim is to play regularly then maybe we have a chance. Leeds look like we are skint so targeting some of the free agents that are out there seems to be our best chance of strengthening this summer. A huge influx of players like last summer isn’t going to happen l.