Barcelona 'interested in signing Everton defender John Stones'

Barcelona are reportedly interested in signing Everton defender John Stones.

The England international was heavily linked with a switch to Chelsea last summer, but the Toffees are believed to have rejected around four bids.

During that time, Stones submitted a transfer request, but Everton did not budge and he remains a permanent fixture in Roberto Martinez's back four.

Now, it has been claimed by Spanish journalist Guillem Balague that the centre-back is an option for the reigning La Liga champions.

"I know Barcelona like John Stones a lot, but they haven't yet decided where they are going to put their money this summer," Balague told Sky Sports News.

"They are looking at other options as well. They want a left-back, they want a centre-back and they perhaps want a central midfielder in the mould of Paul Pogba."

Stones has also been linked to Manchester United.