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Chelsea, Manchester City and Everton have all been linked with a move for Barnsley right-back John Stones, revealed the Sun. However, in an interview with BBC, Barnsley boss Keith Hill denied the rumours of the player's departure from the Championship club.

The 18 year-old prodigy joined the Barnsley youth system in 2001 and after making his debut in March last season, the right-back has become a regular feature of their first team. The towering 6'2” defender has signed a three-year contract with the Tykes just last month.

Hill said, “It would be the wrong move for him at this time. We've had no contact from them at the moment. It's in his best interests to stay here and continue his development.”

Chelsea, Man City and Everton are reportedly planning a January bid for the defender. The player could be available for about £2 million and the buyers could hand Barnsley an added bonus by leaving him at the Championship side for the rest of the season.

Chelsea have recently purchased Cesar Azpilicueta to succeed Branislav Ivanovic at right-back. Man City also appear well stocked with Micah Richards, Maicon and Pablo Zabaleta on the books. Everton, on the other hand, seem to be in most dire need of a right-back to take over from the ageing Tony Hibbert. The three clubs could be involved in a bidding war through the winter to lure the player to the Premier League.