Manchester United Transfer News: Latest John Stones, Willian Rumours

New Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has been urged to sign Everton centre-back John Stones over Real Madrid's Raphael Varane this summer.

Former Red Devils and Toffees utility defender Phil Neville believes Stones is a better fit for Mourinho's new-look squad, per Greg O'Keeffe of the Liverpool Echo:

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Varane? I know Mourinho loves him a lot. He raved about him a lot. He's probably similar to John Stones and so you probably wouldn't bring them both in. He could catch pigeons he's so fast. Stones, Varane if you could bring one of the in you'd be strengthening our back four.

I think Stones would probably be a better partner (for Chris Smalling).

"

United have been linked with both defenders since Mourinho's appointment became inevitable. The Daily Star's Jeremy Cross reported the Old Trafford club has already "held talks" with Varane, who Cross also claimed is "willing to team-up with Mourinho once again," after the pair worked together at Real.

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As for Stones, Mourinho is said to want the Everton man, according to Samuel Luckhurst of the Manchester Evening News. But the Daily Telegraph's Matt Law has reported how Barcelona and Manchester City represent strong competition for Stones' signature.

United need a more physical presence than Daley Blind alongside Chris Smalling at the heart of their defence. Both Varane and Stones are gifted young defenders Mourinho can mold into leaders. Either player would suit United, but Stones' Premier League experience may prove decisive.

He didn't have his best season in 2015/16 with the Toffees, but the 21-year-old knows what it takes to adjust to the frenetic pace of play in England's top flight.

Chelsea Won't Sell Willian to a Rival

Mourinho may want to bring his former Chelsea star Willian to Old Trafford, but incoming Blues boss Antonio Conte is reportedly having none of it. The Daily Mail's Kieran Gill has stated Conte "will not entertain" letting Willian join his old manager at United.

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A report from Shaun Custis of the Sun had indicated Mourinho wants Willian at Old Trafford, and the player is also keen to reunite with his former boss. The Brazilian's fit at United would be an obvious one as an upgrade on FA Cup-winning goalscorer Jesse Lingard.

Putting Willian with Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford would give Mourinho a lightning-fast front three capable of terrorising any defence. This trio would let the new United chief lean on the counter-attacking approach he's traditionally favoured.

But Chelsea's resistance to selling their Player of the Season means Mourinho will have to cast a wider net in his search for necessary attacking reinforcements.

Getting the balance right at both ends of the squad will be vital in building the type of spine Mourinho's United will need to get back to competing for the Premier League title.