John Stones to Hold Everton Talks Next Week Over Sensational Return

John Stones is set for crunch talks with Everton next week as the England defender edges ever closer to an emotional return to the club where his Premier League journey first began, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

Discussions are expected to take place shortly after Stones returns from the World Cup in America, with Everton determined to wrap up a deal before the new Premier League season gets underway.

The 32-year-old centre back became a free agent earlier this summer after bringing the curtain down on a glittering 10-year spell with Manchester City, where he established himself as one of the finest defenders of his generation.

Despite an injury-hit campaign that restricted him to just six Premier League appearances for City last season, Stones has reminded everyone of his quality on the international stage by helping England reach the semi-finals of the World Cup.

His performances have convinced both club and country that he still has plenty left to offer at the highest level, and Everton believe they could be about to pull off one of the signings of the summer.

EMOTIONAL 

An emotional return to the Toffees has been spoken about for some time, and the move now appears to be gathering serious momentum.

Stones first arrived at Everton from Barnsley as a promising teenager under David Moyes before developing into one of English football's most sought-after defenders. 

Moyes has long admired the defender's professionalism and leadership qualities and is understood to be eager to welcome him back into the dressing room.

The Everton boss believes Stones' vast experience of winning major honours, together with his pedigree at international level, would be invaluable as the club looks to build on an encouraging Premier League campaign last season.

The biggest obstacle remains Stones' salary expectations after earning one of the highest wages at Manchester City. 

However, with no transfer fee involved, Everton are hopeful a compromise can be reached that suits both parties.

PROVEN WINNER

During his trophy-laden spell at the Etihad Stadium, Stones won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups, three Community Shields, the Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup, establishing himself as one of the most decorated English defenders of the modern era.

Now, after a decade packed with silverware, the prospect of returning to the club that first gave him his chance in the Premier League is becoming increasingly realistic.

Stones is expected back in England next week following the World Cup third place play off, and Everton are hopeful those talks will accelerate quickly.

All signs point towards a homecoming that is edging ever closer.