Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has called upon John Stones to reject a move to Chelsea and to join the Red Devils instead.
The Everton centre-back is reportedly being chased by a number of Premier League clubs this summer, with Chelsea believed to be the current front-runners for the 21-year-old’s signature.
According to Daily Express, Chelsea have had two bids of £20m and £26m turned down by the Toffees this summer, but it is understood Jose Mourinho is keen to table a third offer.
Everton boss Roberto Martinez has continually reiterated his desire to keep Stones at Goodison Park, but it remains to be seen if club bosses turn down a bid in excess of £30m.
Manchester United are in need of a defender, and the Red Devils have also been linked with a move for the England international.
Ferdinand – who made 312 Premier League appearances for United – says Stones should choose the Red Devils over the Blues in order to play first-team football.
“For any young footballer to leave a club to sit on the bench, you’ve got to be a lunatic,” Ferdinand is quoted as saying by Daily Express.
“If John Stones goes to Manchester United, he plays every week so that’s the right club for him. If he goes to Chelsea, he’s not. And he’s at that stage of his development where he wants to play every week.
“I’d buy Stones if I’m United. You’re buying someone who’s going to give you 10 years service. He’s a great prospect, the best young centre-half in the country at the moment. It’s a no-brainer for me.
“Stones is the real deal. I watched him at QPR against Bobby Zamora, who gave most centre-halves problems physically, and he handled Bobby well. He looked up for that battle.”
Stones had made 44 Premier League appearances for Everton since joining from Barnsley in 2013.
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