Moyes’ Move for Stones: Everton Looming with Wage Cut Compromise
Everton are reportedly stepping up their ambition in the transfer market with a surprise potential target: John Stones, the England centre‑back currently at Manchester City. The deal could hinge on whether Stones is willing to accept a drop in wages — a compromise that David Moyes and the Toffees believe might make sense both for the club’s strategy and for Stones’ own career trajectory. Let’s dig into what’s known so far, what the challenges are, and what’s likely to unfold.
What We Know
- Everton interest is real
Reports suggest that Everton are seriously considering re‑signing Stones. It’s been nearly a decade since he left Goodison Park for City, but his background with Everton and his relationship with Moyes give this potential move a sentimental pull. (Goodison News) - Wage demands may pose a hurdle
Stones is currently earning around £250,000 a week at Manchester City. For Everton to make this move reasonable, Stones would likely need to take a significant pay cut. That’s seen as the principal impediment in any negotiations. (Goodison News) - Playing time and fitness concerns
Stones has “just a year left on his contract at the Etihad,” but his recent seasons have been marred by injury problems and limited Premier League action. For someone with World Cup ambitions and interest in staying in England’s consideration, a move back to Everton could make sense if it offers more consistent minutes. (Goodison News) - Everton’s wider context
The Friedkin Group’s ownership appears intent on making Everton more competitive; defensive reinforcements are a priority, especially given interest in Jarrad Branthwaite from other top clubs. Adding someone of Stones’ experience could not only boost the squad but also provide leadership. (Goodison News)
The Challenges
- Financial logistics: Stones’ current salary is hefty, and for Everton – despite renewed ambition – matching or approaching that salary on a sustainable basis is difficult. A wage cut not only means Stones accepting less, but Everton having to allocate budget carefully elsewhere. (Goodison News)
- Injury risks and form: A player of Stones’ caliber brings experience, but the injury history raises doubts. Consistency might be a concern, especially if Everton are to rely on him for many games. (Goodison News)
- Comparative opportunity at City: Even though Stones has had limited starts, being at a club like Manchester City has its perks — Champions League action, and competition at the highest level. Moving back to Everton might mean stepping down in some aspects of exposure and trophy possibilities.
- Negotiation of fee: While wage is one side of the equation, Manchester City will expect a fee. With only a year left on his contract, that might help Everton’s negotiating power, but Stone’s standing and remaining quality ensure it won’t be a trivial sum. (Goodison News)
What a Deal Could Look Like
If this move is to happen, here’s what it might involve:
- Reduced base wage + performance‑incentives: Stones may accept a lower guaranteed weekly wage but supplement it with bonuses for appearances, clean sheets, and other performance metrics.
- Shorter contract: Rather than a 3‑ or 4‑year deal, Everton might offer a 1‑ or 2‑year deal with option(s), giving both Stones and the club flexibility. Stones can prove fitness; Everton can avoid long‑term financial burden.
- Coaching and leadership role: Given his experience, Stones might also take on mentoring responsibilities for younger centre halves like Branthwaite. That gives Everton more than just help on the pitch.
- Fee structure: With Stones entering the final year of his City contract, Everton could negotiate a modest fee, possibly with add‑ons depending on appearances or performance.
Likely Outcome
Given the information available:
- If Stones is serious about getting game time, maintaining national team prospects, and is willing to accept a pay cut, a return could very well happen.
- Everton, under Moyes and the new ownership, seem set on proving their ambition; bringing Stones in would send a message. But they are unlikely to overextend financially; hence, any offer will be tight, clever, and probably front‑loaded with incentives.
- There is risk: if injury problems persist, Everton may find it harder to get value. But at age 31 (approximate), Stones is entering the latter half of his career. A return to a familiar environment could suit him better than churning for limited game time at a top club.
Conclusion
Everton’s reported interest in John Stones embodies a mix of strategy, sentiment, and pragmatism. David Moyes is evidently attracted by the idea of bringing back a player he values, someone whose experience could both stabilise the defence and inspire younger talents. But for this to work, Stones must be willing to sacrifice wage and accept a role with more consistency than glamour. If all parties are aligned, a reunion could be mutually beneficial.
Would you like me to track how likely the deal is, with odds from the betting markets or insider sources, or perhaps compare it to other players Everton are targeting?
