Everton fans in the Tavern have seen a decent start to the season, mostly due to the potent attack including the likes of Romelu Lukaku and Ross Barkley. However, it is displays of John Stones at the back that have yet again been catching the eye of watching managers.
Over the summer he was courted by Chelsea as the Stamford Bridge club launched a number of bids that were all eventually rejected. It is clear from the West Londoners form at the start of the season that they could have done with Stones as they lurk in the bottom half of the table.
Therefore, it would not be a surprise if their new manager Guus Hiddink launches yet another attempt to sign the Toffees most prized centre back. As well as Chelsea, other teams such as Manchester United and City have shown an interest in the England international defender thus a battle for his signature could ensue when the transfer winder reopens in January.
Here’s a look at 5 possible replacements that Everton could have bid for if they decide to eventually to sell Stones for what would be a substantial fee.
Hit Stones below to see FIVE replacements for the English star!
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Nemanja Vidic
The ex-Manchester United and Serbia captain has had a tough time in Italy since arriving at the San Siro. Despite a tough start to his first season, his impressive performances towards the latter stages earned him his place back in the team.
However, under Roberto Mancini, Vidic has failed to make a single appearance for Inter this season and has been heavily linked with a move back to England. However, the Toffees may be put off by the defenders age and his sudden loss of form may be a sign that his glory days are behind him.
Winston Reid
The New Zealand captain is a seamless replacement for the English international with his robust no nonsense attitude to which can tighten up the leaky Everton back four. His added steel and aerial prowess is a welcoming addition to the Merseyside team, with his proven Premier League quality making him a guaranteed success if he gets the move.
His astute leadership qualities make him an attractive proposition and the current form of Everton could persuade him with the chance of European football being very likely. However, he may come at a hefty price tag as his he holds an immense value to the Hammers.
Phil Jones
Despite his age Phil Jones is a defender with tons of Premier League experience at a high level, winning the title with Manchester United in the 2012/13 season. He is a current England international and can play in various positions, which many think has stalled his development rather than aid it.
It is clear that now at the age of 23 Jones wants to play in the centre of defence on a regular basis and if Everton agree to sell Stones then Jones will be able to fill the void left behind. Everton may struggle however to lure Jones from Old Trafford if the United manager, whoever it might be, sees the England centre back in his future plans.
Ashley Williams
Current Swansea and Wales Captain could be a viable option for Roberto Martinez having worked with him previously at the Liberty Stadium. Williams may be disheartened by the Swans current poor form and would like to go into this summer’s Euro 2016 tournament on a high as he hopes to impress with his Welsh side in their first major tournament since 1958.
The commanding centre back is another option with leadership quality and bags of Premier League experience however, Swansea will be reluctant to sell as they look to escape the relegation zone and push up the table.
Calum Chambers
Chambers is currently struggling to break into the starting eleven at the Emirates due to the emergence of Hector Bellerin at right back and the signing of Gabriel Paulista providing the main cover at centre back. Chambers is a player of similar ilk to John Stones and will be looking for first team football at the back end of the season in order to stake a claim for place in England’s Euro 2016 squad.
Arsene Wenger would however be unwilling to let his young English defensive prospect leave easily therefore a loan may be Everton’s most realist opportunity of signing Chambers in the foreseeable future.
