Chelsea are reportedly preparing to break their own transfer policy as they weigh up a move for free agent John Stones this summer.
The England international became available after his contract at Manchester City expired, drawing interest from multiple Premier League clubs.
Xabi Alonso has begun pre-season training ahead of his first campaign as Chelsea manager, and fresh recruitment options are being placed in front of him.
The Athletic have reported that Chelsea are considering adding Stones to their shortlist of potential targets as they look to strengthen their squad.
Stones, who is 32 years old, spent a decade at the Etihad Stadium and made 295 appearances for Manchester City during his time there.
Chelsea have historically operated under a self-imposed rule of signing younger players with sell-on potential, but Stones’ experience appears to be attracting their attention regardless.
The move would follow a failed approach for Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka earlier this summer, suggesting Chelsea are willing to pursue older profiles in certain positions.
Arsenal had been linked with signing Stones prior to Chelsea’s reported interest entering the picture, with the Gunners facing potential defensive problems.
The Sun reported that Arsenal were considering a move for Stones following the injury to France centre-back William Saliba during the World Cup, which could sideline him for months.
Chelsea have already beaten Arsenal to one major signing this summer after agreeing a deal worth £117 million to sign Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa.
The Blues reached a verbal agreement for Rogers, who Arsenal had been heavily linked with over recent months, making it a damaging summer for the Gunners on the transfer front.
Should Stones complete a move to Stamford Bridge, it would represent another blow to Arsenal as they attempt to defend their Premier League title.
Stones himself is expected to take a summer break following England’s run to the World Cup semi-final before deciding on his next club.
