Manchester City are in talks with Everton over a deal for John Stones, sources have told ESPN FC.
As reported by ESPN FC earlier this month, Stones has informed Everton of his desire to move to Manchester City this summer with new boss Pep Guardiola making the England international one of his top targets this summer.
Stones was involved in a transfer saga last summer with Chelsea seeing several offers for his services rejected as Everton managed to fend off the interest to keep hold of Stones.
The 22-year-old is keen to avoid another transfer wrangle and sources have told ESPN FC that City have stepped up their efforts to land Stones as they look to push through a deal for the defender.
Guardiola has sanctioned City to make the move for Stones with the defender set to command a fee in the region of £50 million to persuade Everton.
The two clubs have been in dialogue over Stones for most of the summer and sources have told ESPN FC that talks are at an advanced stage as both parties look to thrash out a fee for the talented centre-back.