Harry Redknapp says he advised former Chelsea manager Frank Lampard to sign John Stones last summer.
The England international is enjoying an excellent season at Manchester City, who are seven points clear of the chasing pack in the Premier League title race.
However, Stones’ days at the Eithad Stadium seemed to be numbered at the end of last term.
Stones was linked with a move to Arsenal last summer but nothing came of the Gunners’ reported interest.
“They’re [City] fantastic aren’t they and John Stones… what a comeback,” the former Tottenham boss told Sky Sports.
“I text Frank at the start of the year but they’d already made a signing at Chelsea. I said, ‘What about him, John Stones?’ But he’d already made a signing at Chelsea.
“I think he is a real talent. Someone just had to get hold of him again and get him playing and believing in himself.
“And he’s come back now and he looks the best centre-half around. He’s in fantastic form.”
Stones started his 14th Premier League game of the season as Guardiola’s side beat Tottenham 3-0 on Saturday.
Guardiola’s men will face Borussia Monchengladbach in Europe’s premier competition, with the first leg scheduled for February 24.
While you're here, subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save 37%. All the exclusive interviews, long reads, quizzes and more but with more than a third-off normal price.
INTERVIEW Jonathan Woodgate exclusive: “My period at Leeds was special – but I feel unfulfilled”
