Report: Wigan Athletic to bid for Barnsley defender John Stones

Wigan Athletic are said to be preparing a bid for Barnsley defender John Stones.

The 18-year-old has already featured 22 times for the Tykes side this season and his performances have reportedly attracted the attention of a number of top-flight clubs, including Everton and Chelsea.

However, according to Sky Sports News, Wigan boss Roberto Martinez is hoping that the promise of regular first-team football will help the Latics beat their Premier League rivals to the player's signature.

Stones, who has been capped twice by England at Under-19 level, is under contract at Oakwell until June 2015.