Arsenal are still keeping tabs on Manchester City centre-back John Stones, according to Eurosport journalist Dean Jones. Writing in his transfer column, the reporter claimed that the Gunners “would be keen to speak” to the 26-year-old if he is made available for transfer next month.

The defender has begun to play more regularly in recent weeks, having started two of the last three games, but if manager Pep Guardiola continues to favour Ruben Dias and Aymeric Laporte as the first choice centre-half pairing, he may have to consider his future at the Etihad Stadium.

It is believed that Arsenal want to be kept in the loop regarding Stones’ future and would be ready to make their move in the January transfer window if the player opts to leave City.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta worked with the England international for a number of years when he was assistant manager of the Citizens and it appears he remains a big fan of the player.