Jose Mourinho 'to target John Stones when appointed Manchester United boss'

Rumoured incoming Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is reportedly planning to jump back into the race for Everton defender John Stones after he failed to sign him while in charge of Chelsea.

Mourinho is believed to have tabled four bids for the England international last summer, but each one was rejected by the Merseyside outfit.

The Portuguese coach, who was sacked by Chelsea in December, could be named United boss this week, replacing Louis van Gaal, who has one year left on his contract.

Despite not yet being in the Old Trafford hotseat, it is believed that Mourinho has begun outlining his transfer targets as he is expected to be handed in excess of £150m to spend.

According to The Guardian, the 53-year-old is keen on £40m-rated Stones, Mauro Icardi, Alvaro Morata, Andre Gomes, Ezequiel Garay and Joao Mario.

Van Gaal, who spent around £250m on players in two years, is expected to be sacked just days after he guided United to their first FA Cup trophy since 2004.