12. John Stones (£47.5m – Everton to Manchester City, 2016) Hmmm
Stones’ £47.5 million move from Everton may be the most difficult transfer to evaluate on the list; yet, while not quite reaching his full potential, Stones still manages to qualify as a “hit” acquisition.
After moving to City in 2016, there was anticipation that Stones would flourish under Guardiola’s direction. The England international hasn’t been unstoppable at the Etihad, either, due to ongoing injuries and uneven play.
He had a bit of a comeback in the 2020–21 campaign, but last term, first-team opportunities were difficult to come by. He has nevertheless made 195 appearances for City, and he is presently gearing up for his sixth campaign with the team.