Chelsea have joined the race for Everton defender John Stones but will face a difficult task prising him away.
Arsenal also have an interest in the 19-year-old, who is being tipped as an outsider for Roy Hodgson’s World Cup training squad.
Stones was bought from Barnsley by David Moyes in January 2013 for a £3million fee, heading off interest from then-Wigan manager Roberto Martinez and Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.
Although he was playing as a right back, Moyes and Martinez recognised Stones would become a centre back and he is showing how in his performances of late.
Arsenal have watched the England U21 defender closely and like his ability to bring the ball out of defence which has come to the fore this season.
Chelsea have good youth players coming through but Stones is ahead of them after gaining Premier League experience.
Both clubs would like to make an offer but Everton are not looking to sell any of their stars as they continue to make giant strides towards Champions League qualification.
Whereas in the past they would be vulnerable to any sizeable bid, the club is utilising increased TV money to stabilise and build for the future.
Ross Barkley is also inevitably wanted by Premier League rivals but Everton believe the player wants to stay at Goodison for at least another two years before taking stock of where to take his career.
By that time they hope to have added more than Champions League qualification to convince him to stay.
Written by Steve Milne
