Mourinho wants Stones at United

Cape Town - Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has reportedly told club officials that Everton defender John Stones is his number one transfer target.

Despite a season of some questionable defensive performances, the 21-year old has forged a reputation of one of the finest ball-playing centre backs in Europe since joining the club from Barnsley as an 18-year old.

The England international defender was subject to three failed transfer bids from Chelsea last season while Mourinho was still in charge of the club and the Portuguese mentor is determined to get his man this time around.

With Everton not enjoying the best of seasons, resulting in the sacking of manager Roberto Martinez - who convinced Stones it was in his best interests to remain at the Toffees - he could now be let go for a fee of around £45m.

According to the Express UK, the Special One wants the deal to be wrapped up before Euro 2016 begins as he's been given £200m to spend on rebuilding the Red Devils squad.

Since joining Everton in January 2013 for £3m, Stones has made 95 appearances for the Toffees in all competitions.