Everton’s 19-year-old defender John Stones is attracting interest from both Chelsea and Arsenal, joining teammate Ross Barkley on the London clubs’ respective transfer agendas for the summer.
Stones has emerged as a real gem for the high flying Toffees this season, filling in for the injured Phil Jagielka for seven consecutive games now; a run that has seen Everton not drop a single point, and climb above Arsenal into fourth place in the Premier League.
The Gunners have taken note of the former Barnsley man’s progress under Roberto Martinez, with the defender having been initially brought to Goodison Park by David Moyes last year.
The Daily Mail have claimed that both Arsenal and Chelsea are both keen to bid for his services, but will find it difficult in light of Everton’s recent league achievements.
The Merseysiders are not looking to sell their star players, with the club eager to force their way into the Premier League elite. Increased revenue from their Champions League push will only serve to toughen the Toffees’ reserve, and if they do make fourth, it seems unlikely that they would allow their best talents to leave the club.
This applies to Ross Barkley too. The 20-year-old has been a revelation in the heart of the Everton midfield this season, and had been strongly linked with a move to Manchester United.
The Mail suggest that Chelsea and Arsenal like the look of the England man, but know that Everton will fight tooth and nail to keep their most prized possessions. The Toffees believe Barkley will be happy to continue under the tutelage of Martinez for the at least a further two years
What do you think? Can Everton reach the Champions League this season? Let me know in the comments below…
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