Barcelona have reportedly dropped their interest in Everton defender John Stones.
According to The Mirror, Barcelona have been put off a move for Everton defender John Stones because of doubts over his ability to adapt in Spain.
Stones, 21, joined Everton from his hometown club Barnsley back in January 2013, and was initially signed as one for the future under then-manager David Moyes.
However, the centre back quickly established himself as one of the Premier League’s brightest young defenders, impressing not only with his reading of the game but also with his ability to bring the ball out of defence.
With more than 80 first-team appearances for Everton and seven caps for England, Stones has become a key player far sooner than anybody could have expected, but he hasn’t been without criticism.
Stones’ performances of late have been slammed by Everton fans, suggesting that he takes too many risks in defence and is ultimately putting his team in danger when he attempts ambitious passes or dribbles around his own box.
Now, The Mirror report that Barcelona have shelved their interest in signing Stones this summer – but not because of his mistakes on the pitch.
Instead, it’s claimed that the reason for Barcelona’s change of heart is because they have been making enquiries about Stones’ attitude and temperament, and the feedback they have been given suggests that he would struggle to adapt to life in La Liga.
Barcelona are now allegedly looking towards Paris Saint-Germain’s Marquinhos and Athletic Bilbao’s Aymeric Laporte, meaning Everton may just have a slightly better chance of keeping one of their most prized assets this summer.
Do you think Stones will leave Everton this summer?
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