England's Stones joins Inter Milan on free transfer

England centre-back John Stones has joined Inter Milan on a free transfer after spending 10 years with Manchester City, the Italian champions announced on Thursday.

The 32-year-old left City when his contract expired at the end of last month, while playing for England at the World Cup where he helped them to a third-placed finish.

Stones has signed a two-year deal with Inter, a club statement said.

He played five times for England at the recent World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada, making his 94th international appearance in the semi-final loss to Argentina.

Stones was a key player for Manchester City during their golden era under former manager Pep Guardiola, winning six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, three League Cups and a Champions League crown with the club.

His final few seasons at the Etihad Stadium, though, were hit by injuries, and he only made nine Premier League appearances last term.

Stones could make his Inter debut when they start their Scudetto defence against Monza at the San Siro on August 22.