Arsenal could make huge John Stones bid as defensive issues deepen

Arsenal's reluctance to spend big is a thing of the past, and Arsene Wenger could be about to dig into the club's coffers for John Stones.

The England defender was the subject of a big money bid from Chelsea over the summer, but an asking price of around £35m ensured he stayed at Everton. The Sunday Mirror claimed Arsenal were weighing up a move for the 21-year-old before this weekend's draw with Norwich, and Laurent Koscielny's injury may make their pursuit of a new defender all the more urgent. Koscielny limped off in the first half of the game at Carrow Road, leaving Wenger's side short at the back as they approach the January transfer window. The Gunners are yet to learn the full extent of the Frenchman's injury, but Stones - who could also cover for the losses of Francis Coquelin and Mikel Arteta in midfield - would surely improve Arsenal's squad.