La Liga giants want to beat Chelsea to centre-back
FC Barcelona have joined the race to sign Everton centre-back John Stones, according to reports.
The Blues are expected to launch a fourth formal bid for the defender in the January transfer window, but they may miss out on him with Barca reportedly interested.
Chelsea had three formal bids over the summer turned down by Everton for Stones, with the last one being worth around £40million.
However, Jose Mourinho is desperate to get the deal done and will launch a fourth and possibly final bid in the New Year.
The 21-year-old defender has developed into one of England’s hottest properties, and he’s gone from strength to strength this season after being a regular at Goodison Park.
Barca Want Stones
According to reports, Barca have officially sent scouts out to watch the England centre-back play and could launch a formal bid in January once their transfer embargo is lifted.
Barca are in the market for defensive reinforcements, with Gerard Pique, Jérémy Mathieu and Javier Mascherano there only real options at centre-back.
Thomas Vermaelen is still an injury concern and it’s reported Barca officials are fed up of his fitness levels.
As of yet, it’s believed Stones will stay at Everton until the summer despite the interest shown by the Champions League giants.
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt
