Arsenal eye John Stones as potential Saliba replacement in free transfer

Arsenal are exploring the possibility of signing England defender John Stones on a free transfer as cover for William Saliba, whose injury may keep him sidelined for an extended period. The 32-year-old Stones is currently without a club after leaving Manchester City earlier this summer.

The Gunners are waiting on a clearer prognosis for Saliba, 25, who sustained the issue in pre-season. If the Frenchman faces a lengthy absence, Arsenal could move quickly to bring in Stones, a seasoned international with Premier League and Champions League experience.

Other Monday transfer gossip

• Chelsea have held formal talks with Crystal Palace over defender Maxence Lacroix, with Palace valuing the 26-year-old at around £55m.
• Hull City are in negotiations with Aston Villa for winger Leon Bailey, while also closing in on a free transfer for former Newcastle left-back Matt Targett.
• Liverpool have joined Manchester United in the race for Roma midfielder Manu Kone, 25.
• Aston Villa have discussed potential deals for Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson and Alejandro Garnacho, and are also a possible destination for AC Milan's Rafael Leao.
• Juventus have made Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez their top target, while also monitoring David de Gea.

With the summer transfer window still open, clubs across the Premier League are working to finalise their squads ahead of the new season. Arsenal's potential move for Stones could be one of several significant deals to watch in the coming days.