Manchester City have joined Premier League champions Chelsea in the race to sign Everton defender John Stones.

The Mirror is reporting that Chelsea are preparing to table their third offer for Stones after previously having bids of £20million and £26million knocked back by the Toffees.

However, City have now entered the frame and are reportedly prepared to match any offer tabled by Chelsea should Everton change their stance and opt to sell the 21-year-old.

It is understood Everton have placed a £34million price tag on Stones, which would be a British record transfer fee for a defender.