Everton have confirmed that John Stones has joined Manchester City for a club-record fee.
Talks had progressed between the two clubs this summer before the England international was named in City’s Champions League squad by UEFA this morning.
Goodison Park officials had held out for a £50 million valuation for Stones but Pep Guardiola landed his man for a fractionally less figure of £47.5 million.
“I’m absolutely delighted to sign for City and now the deal’s done I’m looking forward to the next stage in my career,” said Stones.
“I’ve obviously seen what’s going on here at the Etihad, it’s an ambitious club with a great manager so I can’t wait to get stuck in and help achieve the goals.
“I know it will be tough getting a place in this team but I’m determined to become the best player I can be and help us to success.
“I had a wonderful time with Everton and wish them and their fans all the best but now I’ll give my all for City.”
Stones was the subject of interest from Chelsea last summer but the London club saw all three bids, ranging from £23 million to £40 million, were rejected by Everton,
Stones’ former club are expected to pocket between £38.5 million and £40.5M depending on the sell-on fee paid to the defender’s boyhood team Barnsley, from where he originally arrived in January 2013.