Everton in talks with Man City over Stones sale
Manchester City are in talks with Everton over the transfer of England international John Stones, as per BBC Sport.
The 22-year-old, who was lower down the pecking order at England’s failed Euro 16 campaign in France to the more experienced Gary Cahill and Chris Smalling, certainly has a point to prove and remains one of England’s brightest prospects.
It is believed that the two clubs have similar valuations for the player, who would be a shrewd addition to Pep Guardiola’s revolution.
Eliaquim Mangala and Nicolas Otamendi have failed to establish themselves next to captain Vincent Kompany, following their big-money moves from Europe over the last two seasons.
Stones himself was subject to a £40 million bid from Chelsea last summer, one which was swiftly rejected by Roberto Martinez.
Ronald Koeman would love to keep Stones as part of his plans but £50 million might just be too good to turn down for a young player that still has a long way to go.
As for Guardiola and Manchester City, the move makes sense. Pep loves defenders that are comfortable bringing the ball out from defence and building attacks. Stones is arguably England’s most technical and adventurous defender, comparable to Gerard Pique of Barcelona and Javi Martinez at Bayern Munich in Guardiola’s previous jobs.