Everton defender John Stones is edging nearer to joining Manchester City after talks opened between the clubs.
Stones intimated to Ronald Koeman his desire to leave the Blues in favour of linking up with Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium.
Goodison Park officials are bracing themselves for the England international’s departure, just 12 months after they resisted multiple attempts by Chelsea.
Negotiations with City are progressing, with the Abu Dhabi-owned club acknowledging that Stones will not be sold for anything less than £50 million.
Guardiola identified the 22-year-old as his priority signing in defence after failing to prise Aymeric Laporte from Athletic Bilbao.