Hill denies Blues Stones talk

John Stones: Linked with a move to Chelsea, but Barnsley have denied any contact

Barnsley boss Keith Hill has rejected talk that young defender John Stones could be set for a move to Chelsea.

Reports over the weekend suggested Chelsea were lining up a big-money move for the highly-rated 18-year-old.

Stones has come through the ranks at Oakwell and made his first-team debut last March, going on to make eight appearances for the club.

Stones is highly-regarded at Barnsley and recently signed a new deal at the Championship outfit.

Hill insists there has been no contact with Chelsea regards Stones and he feels the youngster should remain at Barnsley to continue his development.

Rumours

"There probably are rumours but to me it wouldn't be to his benefit because is he really going to play there?" Hill told Radio Sheffield.

"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.

"He is a player who can go all the way because he's grounded, he's got good football intelligence and he wants to improve."