Everton look set to go after a new centre-back this summer and John Stones is reportedly a target, which may be music to the ears of one player in particular.
Everton have been widely praised this season for the way they have defended – with the four centre-backs coming in for special praise.
Would a return for John Stones on a free make any sense for Everton? 🧐
His experience could prove priceless! 🏆
John Stones lifts the Premier League trophy for Manchester City.
Credit: Getty Images/Justin Setterfield
Indeed, James Tarkowski, Michael Keane, Jake O’Brien and Jarrad Branthwaite have all done really well overall.
But Michael Keane is out of contract this summer and could potentially leave.
Even if he extends, he is not a long term option and neither is Tarkowski, with both players 33.
Everton will reportedly prioritise a new centre-back this summer, and Stones appears to be a player the Toffees are considering.
And surely Jarrad Branthwaite in particular would be all for it.
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John Stones would be the perfect mentor for Jarrad Branthwaite
John Stones playing for Manchester City.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Everton’s interest in Stones has been pushed again today, with Alex Crook claiming that Manchester City will not be offering him a new deal.
He will therefore leave and become a free agent.
This presents a big opportunity for someone, with Stones having shown his class for many years at the Etihad Stadium.
He has been known for his incredible ball-playing ability, and quality when it comes to breaking the lines, either with a pass or by dribbling.
And Everton have a player very much in his mould in Branthwaite.
The 23-year-old has carved out a reputation for being extremely cultured, but also being a physical specimen.
Branthwaite always looks to play the ball forward if he can, and if there is space for him to maraud into, he will certainly do that.
If Everton do actually sign Stones this summer, then at the very least he would probably be a brilliant mentor for Branthwaite, given their similarities in play style.
Jarrad Branthwaite playing for Everton.
Photo by Richard Martin-Roberts – CameraSport via Getty Images
Stones has been around the block and would have plenty of pearls of wisdom to pass on to his compatriot.
But of course, it remains to be seen if Stones really will pitch up at the Hill Dickinson Stadium this summer.
The major drawback to signing him is his injury record, something everyone is fully aware of.
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