It’s no secret that Chelsea are pursuing the signature of Everton defender John Stones. The 21-year-old centre back has risen to the spotlight in recent years due to his inspiring performances for the Toffees, which has also helped him to gain a call-up to the England national side.

Stones is without a doubt one of the most exciting prospects in the world. At such a young age, the defender looks composed, confident and tactically aware – showing exactly why the Premier League champions are hugely interested in acquiring his services. As well as a whole host of other clubs including both Manchester clubs.

So why would Chelsea be willing to invest upwards of £30 million for a defender who’s relatively unproven at the absolute highest level? Especially when you consider they have the likes of Kurt Zouma in their ranks, another young central defender who has impressed during his time at Stamford Bridge.

Stones is a defender who can reinvent the Chelsea defence, purely because of his versatility and combined speed with strength. With John Terry and Gary Cahill currently holding the line for Chelsea, there is surely no way the 21-year-old could budge either one of the duo, who are known as the best in the league. However, John Stones’ fresh style of defending could probably surprise many, and press for a place in the starting XI. After all, JT won’t last forever, and that’s surely a big reason why Mourinho fancies Stones so much. A like for like swap.

The Englishman can also play a role at right-back, which wouldn’t hurt the team if Ivanovic becomes injured.