Exclusive – Former Man City star would back big-money move for Everton defender John Stones

Trevor Sinclair says John Stones has the potential to be one of the greatest central defenders of all-time - and believes he would be an ideal addition for Manchester City.

Stones, the subject of three failed bids from Chelsea in the summer, has been outstanding for Everton since making his Premier League breakthrough and impressed for England against France last month.

Everton are determined to keep hold of the 21-year-old but City certainly have the money to make a tempting offer, and Sinclair believes he would be well worth a massive transfer fee.

“Stones is potentially one of the best ever,” said the former City star, speaking on the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast.

“The way he is playing, he is going to inspire a new generation of centre-halves who want to play, who don’t want to just hoof it, who want to get the ball down and have the confidence and the ability to get themselves out of tight situations and start attacks.

“It would be great if they [City] could get someone like John Stones. [But] I’m sure Everton don’t want to let him go and I’m sure there will be a lot of big teams in for him because he is top drawer.”