Manchester City sign defender John Stones for €55 million

Manchester City have signed defender John Stones from Everton for around €55 million (£47.5m).

The England international, 22, has signed a six-year deal and has become the world’s second most expensive defender behind David Luiz.

“It’s an ambitious club with a great manager so I can’t wait to get stuck in,” Stones said. “I know it will be tough getting a place in this team, but I’m determined to become the best player I can be and help us to success.”

In a statement, City described Stones as "one of the world's most promising centre-backs" with a reputation as a "ball-playing, 21st-century defender".

They said he is at his best when "neutralising opposition attacks" and "launching the first key pass out of the defensive third".

"We want to help John show his quality with us and improve on what he has already achieved. I like the way he plays the game and I'm looking forward to welcoming him into the squad,” manager Pep Guardiola said.

Everton confirmed in a short statement that they had received a “record fee” for Stones, who made 95 appearances for the club in three seasons, scoring once.

Championship side Barnsley, the Yorkshireman's first club, will get between €8 and €11 from a sell-on clause.

Everton had rejected a €47 million bid for Stones from Chelsea last summer and rejected the defender’s transfer request.

He becomes Guardiola’s eight summer signing this season, following the purchases of Ilkay Gundogan, Nolito, Leroy Sane, Gabriel Jesus, Marlos Moreno, Aaron Mooy and Oleksandr Zinchenko.