It’s a piece of transfer talk that’s been resurfacing all summer, before, during and after Euro 2016 where the ex-Barnsley player remained benched.
But that matters not one jot to the Daily Mail or the Sun, who both ‘slap’ different fees on the 22-year-old.
“Everton want £50million for the England international which would make him Britain’s most-expensive defender,” claims the Mail.
“Stones is wanted by City boss Pep Guardiola and has informed the Toffees of his wish to move to the Etihad.”
The Sun’s take on the story is similar, but different: “Stones has told Everton he wants out so that he can join Pep Guardiola at Manchester City in a stunning £45 million deal.
“Classy centre half Stones has come back from England duty to let the Toffees know of his desire to move on.”
But over at Football Italia there’s another name being linked with a move to City’s defensive unit, that of Leonardo Bonucci.
This piece of speculation travels around the houses a bit, having originated elsewhere – “Pep Guardiola said Leonardo Bonucci was one of the best defenders in the world and Juventus reportedly reject a €45m Manchester City offer.
“The centre-back proved his mettle once more during Euro 2016, converting a penalty in Italy’s 1-1 draw with Germany and starting moves from the back with Andrea Pirlo-style passes.
“According to Sky Sport Italia and Tuttosport, Manchester City offered €45m (approximately £38m) for the 29-year-old defender and wages worth €7m per year.
“However, Guardiola was told in no uncertain terms to forget about Bonucci.”
We don’t know that for certain, but one thing is for sure – the transfer rumour-mill won’t stop, and we’ll bring you more on Thursday!
