John Stones is reportedly at the centre of a five-way transfer battle

Everton may soon feel vindicated after turning down a big-money approach for John Stones last summer.

The England centre-back was courted by then-Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho, but the Toffees held out for more than their Premier League rivals were prepared to pay. And now the asking price for the young defender - thought to be at least £35m - could go up even higher amid interest from several top European clubs. Chelsea's interest is understood not to have wavered, while Manchester United and Manchester City are also thought to be keen on the 21-year-old. The Daily Telegraph claim City want to replace Eliaquim Mangala with Stones in preparation for the arrival of Pep Guardiola at the end of the season. Meanwhile, Spanish publication AS report that Barcelona have joined the race, adding to a recent Real Madrid link, and the sale of Gerard Deulofeu to Everton could help put them in the driving seat.