Everton slap £45m price tag on John Stones amid Man United interest

It seems that only a record fee for a defender would convince Everton to part ways with John Stones.

The English youngster's future has long been the subject of speculation since David Moyes brought him to Merseyside from Barnsley in January of 2013. But while the Toffees paid just £3m for the defender less than three years ago, the Manchester Evening News report that the 21-year-old would now cost somewhere in the region of £45m. While it is a high price to pay, it is believed that Manchester United might be willing to stump up the cash for the England international. Having spent £27m on Luke Shaw just two summers ago. Still, any move would likely have to wait until the summer as Roberto Martinez is unwilling to let the rock of his defence leave in the middle of a season.