Real Madrid have earmarked Everton defender John Stones as their No1 transfer target if Manchester United are successful in prizing Raphael Varane from the club, according to The Daily Express.
Stones, 21, had been strongly tipped with a move to Chelsea over the summer, but the Toffees blocked the move and even rejected the England international’s transfer request.
However, Chelsea will now have to fend off reported interest from Real Madrid if they are to secure his services in the future.
The interest around one of the most highly rated central defenders in the Premier League is understandable. In the Premier League this season, only Nyom (25) have won possession more in the defensive third than Stones (24).
For more stats on John Stones, click here to visit his WhoScored player page
