Jose Mourinho is understood to be keen on bringing Everton centre-back John Stones to Manchester United.
According to the Express, the Portuguese coach has identified the England international as a key target ahead of a seemingly inevitable summer spend, and is looking to spend a portion of the Red Devils’ £200 million transfer warchest on bringing Stones to Old Trafford.
While Chris Smalling—who may well feature alongside Stones for England this summer—is an able defender, the former Fulham man’s partners at the back have often left a lot to be desired.
Phil Jones has struggled with injury, Daley Blind and Michael Carrick are not natural defenders, while Marcos Rojo has never truly convinced in the Premier League.
While Stones has struggled at times for Everton this season, he remains one of the most highly rated young stoppers in the English game, and could be an asset for the Red Devils for many years to come.
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It’s fair to assume that Mourinho is a long-term admirer of the defender, having made numerous bids to snare him from Everton during his time as Chelsea coach.