Ronald Koeman is keen for any deal involving John Stones’ move to Manchester City to include Wilfried Bony going the other way, reports the Daily Mirror.
Stones has allegedly signalled his intention to leave Goodison Park this summer, with City looking to secure the services of the England youngster.
Koeman has been informed of Stones’ decision to move to the Etihad Stadium this summer, but the Everton hierarchy are demanding £50m to land his signature.
The Toffees boss wants to improve Everton’s attacking options and is hoping to convince the board to accept a lower fee provided Bony is included in the deal.
The Ivory Coast international is surplus to requirements at the Etihad Stadium having struggled to replicate his Swansea form following his switch to City 18 months’ ago.
Swansea are interested in bringing Bony back to the Liberty Stadium, while Galatasaray are rumoured to be exploring a possible loan deal for the 27-year-old.
However, with ongoing doubts surrounding Romelu Lukaku’s future, Everton could come into the race to sign Bony and, given City’s hopes of signing Stones, may hold the upper hand in any possible transfer.
Koeman and City director of football Txiki Begiristain share a good working relationship following their respective playing spell at Barcelona and it is thought that a possible deal involving Bony was discussed when the Everton manager and Begiristain met in Manchester last week to discuss Stones’ future.
Everton’s Dutch boss will hope he can help rediscover Bony’s best form with the the Ivorian netting just six Premier League goals following his big money move to City.
For more stats on Wilfried Bony, click here to view his WhoScored player page
