Manchester City’s bid to sign John Stones has hit a stumbling block after they refused to match Everton’s £50 million valuation of the defender.
Talks between the two clubs over a deal had been progressing after the England international informed the Blues of his desire to move to the Etihad Stadium.
But City are not willing to match the demands outlined by Everton despite a clear acknowledgement of Stones’ value ahead of negotiations.
Pep Guardiola identified the 22-year-old as one of his primary transfers target this summer but has threatened to look elsewhere for defensive reinforcements.
Juventus centre-back Leonardo Bonucci is currently being considered as a fall-back option should City fail in their efforts to prise Stones away from Goodison Park.