Conte, who is expected to replace Guus Hiddink at Chelsea, has announced that he prefers to bring in Italy centre back Leonardo Bonucci, over John Stones. Stones has been on Chelsea’s radar for a while, with a proposed £50 million deal.
However, with the announcement that Conte would prefer to have the experienced 28 year old Bonucci on defense, instead of the much younger Stones, seriously puts into doubt whether Chelsea will continue pursuing the Everton defender.
Furthermore, bringing in Bonucci at a fraction of the cost of what Stones would be valued at, means that Conte could have more room to pursue other transfers he believes to be important for his squad.
To further complicate matters for a potential Stones move to Chelsea, Everton has stated that they intend to retain the talented centre back. Any club that is looking for the services of Stones, would have to provide a substantial transfer fee.
