Chelsea could launch move for Everton star
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is considering a summer swoop for Everton centre-back John Stones, as he continues to search for a long-term John Terry replacement.
Stones, who is currently away with the England U-21s at the European Championships, has broken through at Goodison Park in the past two seasons, after completing his move from Barnsley.
However, his consistent performances have caught the eye of bigger clubs, with Chelsea showing severe interest in the young defender.
The 21-year-old is just one name on Mourinho‘s shortlist, as the Portuguese manager eyes a new defender, midfielder and striker ahead of the new season.
Summer Signings for Chelsea
Despite strolling to the Premier League title this season, Mourinho is aware of his rivals’ intentions of strengthening, so he believes he needs another three players in order to keep the title at Stamford Bridge.
A defender, midfielder and striker is what Mourinho is after, and with Radamel Falcao all-but done from AS Monaco on a season-long loan, the club will now turn to other departments to improve.
The Blues have been linked with Raphael Varane and Toby Alderweireld from the Madrid clubs, but Stones could become a cheaper alternative.
Mourinho has been a long-term admirer of Varane and was the manager who gave the Frenchman his opportunity in Spain with Real, but after failing to break into the first-team since The Special One‘s departure, it was thought he was considering his future.
However, with Rafael Benitez recently taking over at the Bernabeu, Varane is now content on staying and winning a place in the Spaniard’s first-team.
As for Alderweireld, he has been on a season-long loan at Southampton, but after having an impressive season in England, Chelsea want to sign him on a permanent basis if possible.
Stones Preferred Choice
Despite being impressed by the two Madrid defenders, Mourinho may prefer Stones due to his age, price-tag and also his homegrown status.
It would be another Englishman added to Chelsea’s squad and it’s believed a deal could be agreed for around £15million.
If sold for that price, The Toffees would have made a £12m profit since they signed him back in 2013.
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt
