Mourinho plots fresh approach for Stones

24/05/2016

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After missing out on him last year, Jose Mourinho will make signing John Stones one of his priorities this summer according to a report.

The Portuguese is expected to unveiled as the new manager of Manchester United this week and, citing their sources "close to the negotiations", ESPN claim that he will have Everton's defender on his wishlist as he seeks to build on the team Louis van Gaal guided to FA Cup glory at the weekend.

Mourinho failed with what was reported to be four bids for Stones last August that went as high as £38m but Everton and then manager Roberto Martinez held firm in rejecting the overtures from Chelsea.

Sources on Merseyside suggest that Chelsea have already lodged a bid for the England international, perhaps as part of their inquiries about taking Romelu Lukaku back, but it's unlikely the Goodison hierarchy will entertain any offers until they have a new manager of their own in place.

Manchester City's new boss Pep Guardiola has also been credited with interest in the defender who turns 22 this weekend. Maybe he could arrange a swap deal for Joe Hart whom The Sun would have you believe the Blues want to sign for £40m and pay £200,000 a week!