Luton Town will have to overcome a previously-revealed clause in Josh Stones’ contract as they weigh up a summer move for the York City star.
The forward has been a standout for the Minstermen alongside partner Ollie Pearce, with the National League leaders having scored 92 goals in 35 games. Stones has 13 goals so far this campaign and provided an additional six assists.
Hatters Enter Chase, But At A Disadvantage
According to Alan Nixon through his Patreon channel, Luton Town are one of five sides interested in a summer move for Josh Stones, with all of his prospective suitors from League One or the Championship.
1⃣ year of our no.9!
Josh Stones signed for us a year ago today. The Woking hat-trick, the Rochdale brace…. what’s been your favourite moment of his so far?#YCFC🔴🔵 pic.twitter.com/CTtsIJZmPG
— York City FC (@YorkCityFC) January 4, 2026
Oxford United have been credited with interest, alongside Reading and Stockport County, both of who are pushing to finish in the League One playoffs.
Wycombe Wanderers and Luton have been the most proactive in their pursuit of the 22-year-old, sending scouts to York’s National League win away at Scunthorpe United, where the former Oldham Athletic man scored twice.
However, there is another factor which may inhibit these sides’ ability to sign Stones, with Wigan Athletic having a previously-reported first refusal clause in his contract at the LNER Community Stadium.
The Latics sold their forward to York in January of last year, but would be able to re-sign him should another side make an offer. That clause was not used amid interest from across the EFL in the winter transfer window, which saw Minstermen owner Matt Uggla dismiss transfer reports.
https://t.co/GHDUYx4MDY pic.twitter.com/uA1TYfmWd2
— Matt Uggla (@matt_uggla) December 31, 2025
Is A Summer Move Likely?
Josh Stones’ efforts at York City have earned him his fair share of suitors, and with multiple clubs looking for new options to revitalise their squads, picking up the 22-year-old could be pivotal to their plans.
A move away from North Yorkshire is likely to depend on the Minstermen’s league status next season and should they miss out on promotion once again, they could see many of their prized assets, such as Stones, look for moves in the leagues above.
However, Stuart Maynard’s side will fancy their chances at going up as National League champions, with the race for automatic promotion now whittled down to a shootout with Rochdale for the remainder of the season.
Should York prevail, that may dissuade City owner Matt Uggla from selling Stones and others, with previous seasons showing that the winners of the National League are able to challenge at the top of League Two immediately.