Man United in for Stones

Manchester United have joined the chase for Everton defender John Stones.

And they are prepared to offer out-of-favour Jonny Evans as bait in a player-plus-cash deal to try to beat off competition from Chelsea and Manchester City.

United boss Louis van Gaal, who has missed out on long-term target Sergio Ramos from Real Madrid, is still in the market for a new centre-half.

They have yet to make a formal approach but have made discreet enquiries about Stones, 21, as the bidding war hots up. Chelsea have already had two offers turned down but are confident that the England prospect wants to move to ­Stamford Bridge.

They went in with £20million, had another bid of £26m rejected and are preparing a third offer.