Man United insist Jones will stay as Arsenal join race

Matt Stead

Manchester United have told Phil Jones his future remains at Old Trafford after Arsenal emerged as contenders to sign the defender, according to reports.

Stoke City assistant manager Mark Bowen revealed the Potters want to sign Jones, who tops our list of players who need to move before the end of the window.

And according to both The Guardian and the Daily Telegraph, Arsenal are keeping tabs on the England international as Arsene Wenger continues his desperate search for a centre-back.

Jones has not appeared for the Red Devils since January 2 following a host of injuries.

The 24-year-old is finally back to full fitness but has fallen down the pecking order under Jose Mourinho following the arrival of Eric Bailly from Villarreal.

Despite being linked with a move for Southampton’s Jose Fonte, it is understood Jones remains a part of Mourinho’s plans.