Arsenal 'line up' shock free transfer for Man City icon amid Mikel Arteta fear

Arsenal are lining up a shock free transfer for former Manchester City defender John Stones, it has been claimed. The Gunners are expected to dip into the market this summer for a short-term replacement for William Saliba, who is facing up to five months out with a serious back injury . Saliba, 25, was forced off with the long-standing problem during France's World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain when the pain became unbearable. Although it's unclear at this stage if Saliba will need surgery, he is still poised to miss the first part of the 2026/27 season, delivering a huge blow to Mikel Arteta and Arsenal's Premier League title defence. But, in an attempt to cover for Saliba's absence, the Gunners are set to turn their attention to free agent Stones as a possible cost-effective option, according to The Sun .