Everton are now exploring a deal to sign Man City’s ‘underdog’ John Stones

Everton’s quest to strengthen their defense continues to converge ahead of a major summer rebuild under David Moyes, with the club focusing on adding Premier League experience to the back line.

Centre-back is expected to be one of Everton’s main targets during the transfer window.

While the Toffees were fighting for Europe last season, there is still a clear feeling that the team still lacks enough depth and defensive quality to move up the table next season.

One player heavily linked with a return this past weekend has been former Everton defender John Stones.

The City hero is set to leave the Etihad this summer when his contract expires at the end of June, with Everton among the clubs monitoring his situation closely.

Stones initially spent three-and-a-half years at Goodison Park before joining City in 2016 and remains highly regarded by many at the club.

Now, another City defender has emerged as a target.

Everton are reviewing Nathan Ake’s deal

According to TEAMtalk and journalist Graeme Bailey, Everton are eyeing a deal for Nathan Ake as City prepare to reshuffle a key squad this summer.

His report says that the Dutchman could be available for around £20 million, with several clubs monitoring his situation. Bournemouth, Ake’s former club, are believed to be interested.

Ake has been a key member of Pep Guardiola’s squad since arriving from Bournemouth in 2020, helping City win multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups and the Champions League.

However, injuries and intense competition for spots have limited his consistency over the past two seasons.

The ‘underrated’ Dutch defender, who only has one year left on his contract, is still providing valuable experience at the highest level.

Able to play in the center and at left back, Ake is respected for his poise on the ball, composure and tactical flexibility.

Ake’s versatility can be especially useful.

Everton are expected to overhaul a number of defensive positions this summer, and bringing in someone who can combine multiple roles would make strategic sense both financially and tactically.

A reported price of £20million is also reasonable in the current market for a defender with international experience.

Ake turns 32 next season, but his pedigree in the Premier League and at international level means he would still represent Everton’s biggest signing if a deal were to materialise.

However, competition can be tough.

Bournemouth are said to be considering the possibility of re-signing the defender they sold to City six years ago, while international and local clubs are also monitoring developments.

Ake has only one year left on his City contract, which has increased speculation about his future.

At Everton, however, interest underlines how Moyes is trying to take over the club.

The Scot has valued experienced and reliable defenders throughout his managerial career, and links to both Stones and Ake suggest Everton are prioritizing players of proven high quality.

After several years of financial and on-field instability, Everton are focused on building a squad capable of maintaining consistency throughout the Premier League campaign.