Rock solid: Stones is set to partner Phil Jones in centre England defence

Report: Everton battle for giant 26-year-old as they target Stones replacement

Fri 8 April 2016 21:52, UK

By North-west correspondent Alex Stevens

Everton are keeping close tabs on Bristol City’s Aden Flint as they target a replacement for John Stones, according to a report.

West Brom and Aston Villa are also tracking Flint, 26, who stands at an imposing 6ft 6in.

According to the Sun, the Bristol City centre-back is rated in the £2.5million bracket by his club after establishing himself as mainstay for the Championship team.

Former non-league defender Flint clocked up his 100th consecutive appearance for the Robins on Tuesday night in their 1-1 draw with Rotherham at Ashton Gate.

Alongside on-loan Villa man Nathan Baker, Flint has been an ever-present in the back-line this season for Lee Johnson’s team, who currently sit 20th in the Championship.

Some weeks ago, Johnson claimed that of Flint has all the qualities to be a Premier League defender.

Everton manager Roberto Martinez is said to regard Flint as a possible replacement for England international John Stones, who is a £40million-plus target for Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United.