Chelsea target John Stones may become first signing of the Antonio Conte era

It seems like forever that Chelsea have been after John Stones, seeing the defender as John Terry’s long term replacement. They might finally get their wish at the end of this season as Antonio Conte aims to make the player his first signing.

His recent performances have been slightly concerning for everyone as he seems to have suffered a drop in form for Everton, but it doesn’t seem to have put off his potential suitors. After a host of bids were turned down last year, Everton might finally accept a bid this year for the commanding 21 year old center back.

An uncompromising defender, Stones has been criticized for his passing games as Everton slipped to 11th in the league whilst expecting to challenge for European competition places. With 4 games to go, it doesn’t look likely that Everton will make the top 10 and after a thrashing by Liverpool in the Merseyside Derby, Everton fans started to single out Stones as an underperformer.

It might be good news for Chelsea as the defender might be available at a lower price than they bid last year. Abramovich would certainly like to see Kurt Zouma and John Stones become an impassable central defense pairing.

Pep Guardiola of Manchester City (next season) is also known to be an admirer of the defender and with city having their own defensive frailties, Pep might also go in for the signing.
Should Chelsea continue their pursuit? Would Stones develop into a world class defender?