According to The Guardian, Manchester United have today made contact with Everton defender John Stones’ representatives. United have contacted intermediaries working on the defender’s behalf to make him aware that they would welcome him at Old Trafford.
The player has been subject to several bids this summer from Chelsea, including one today thought to be worth around £25m. And whilst Chelsea have made their interest well known, United have been quietly assessing the situation. The Manchester club are yet to make a bid for the England international and would prefer to test the water before committing to a bid.
Louis van Gaal has been on the lookout for a defender during the summer transfer window with several big names being linked to moves to Old Trafford. The most notable of them names is Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos and Valencia’s Nicolas Otamendi. However, as the respective sagas rumble on, Stones could be the more favourable choice at United.
It is understood Everton would only consider selling the player if John Stones was to become the most expensive English defender ever, beating United’s previous record when they signed Rio Ferdinand from Leeds United in 2002. However, United have certain bargaining chips at their disposal, a deal could be done by using Johnny Evans as a makeweight.
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho regards John Stones as a potential long-term successor to captain John Terry. However, Everton are said to be unhappy at the way Chelsea have pursued the player, with Mourinho being more than happy to discuss the player in the media. Therefore a move to Manchester United for the young defender could be more favourable with Everton officials.
United were criticised heavily for their lack of depth in defence last season, something which Louis van Gaal has hoped to address in this transfer window. But, having only signed Italian right-back Matteo Darmian, the Red Devils are still lacking in central defensive areas. At times last season, van Gaal was forced to play midfielder Michael Carrick and a selection of inexperienced youngsters, which often cost them points. Therefore the addition of the highly rated centre-back would add depth to that position whilst also giving the likes of fellow England defenders Phil Jones and Chris Smalling some healthy competition for places.
John Stones made 24 appearances for the Toffees in the Premier League last season in a season that was heavily disrupted through injury. However, despite his injury woes, Stones was still named among the list of nominees for the 2014 European Golden Boy Award, along with United’s Luke Shaw.
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