Arsenal and Chelsea dealt transfer blow as Inter strike 'agreement' for England star

Arsenal and Chelsea were interested in the England international (Picture: Getty)

Arsenal and Chelsea transfer target John Stones has reached a verbal agreement to join Inter Milan on a free transfer, according to reports in Italy.

Stones had attracted interest from a host of top European clubs following his departure from Manchester City at the end of last season, ten years after his £50million move from Everton.

Despite an injury-affected league campaign, the 32-year-old delivered a timely reminder of his quality with his performances for England at the World Cup this summer.

Stones started three games for the Three Lions as Thomas Tuchel’s side made their way to the semi-finals before a late defeat to eventual runners-up Argentina.

Reigning Premier League champions Arsenal had been weighing up a move for Stones, particularly after news that William Saliba will be out for an extended period due to a back injury.

Chelsea have also been credited with interest in the Englishman, as they seek to add some much-needed experience to Xabi Alonso’s squad.

However, both Premier League clubs appear to have lost out in the race to sign Stones, with Sky Italy reporting that Inter have reached an agreement on a two-year deal for the central defender.

John Stones is set to join Inter Milan (Picture: Shutterstock)

Juventus are also said to have been interested in signing Stones, but Inter now appear set to complete a deal by the end of the week.

Cristian Chivu’s side, who won Serie A last year, have already signed midfielder Aleksandar Stankovic from Club Brugge and goalkeeper Ivan Provedel from Lazio this summer.