Barcelona end Stones interest

Spanish giants Barcelona are no longer in the running to sign Everton defender John Stones, The Mirror reveals.

The England international has been a consistent performer for the Toffees since his move from Barnsley in January 2013.

Stones had been strongly linked with a move to Chelsea last summer but the Toffees' hierarchy were keen on keeping hold of their star asset. Since then, Stones has had a mixed campaign with the Toffees struggling to keep hold of leads during the final period of games.

According to The Mirror. La Liga holders Barcelona have dropped interest in the 22-year-old after making enquiries on the player's behaviour.

The report adds that the Catalan giants also doubt the player's ability to adapt to the Spanish game given his struggles at Merseyside this campaign.

Nevertheless, the young defender is likely to be the subject of speculation this summer with English giants Manchester City and Chelsea thought to be monitoring his situation.

Stones has made 28 appearances in all competitions for Everton this term.