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Swansea City missed out on the chance to sign John Stones three years before he made a £50 million move to Manchester City.

The clubs head of recruitment has revealed that he recommended Barnsley defenders John Stones and Mason Holgate to the club before their moves to Premier League Rivals Everton.

But Dave Leadbeater thinks the club will make it third time lucky with the signing of Alfie Mawson from the same club this summer.

Stones has since gone on to become the second most expensive central defender in the world after his £47.5 million move to Manchester City.

He is also an England international, and after linking up with Pep Guardiola is expected to evolve into one of the finest defenders in Europe.

Holgate is now a permanent fixture in the Everton back four and, at just 19, looks set for further honours.

Leadbeater said Swansea were not going to miss out on a third Barnsley defender and were happy to outbid rivals for the signature of recent arrival Mawson.

Speaking about Mawson, Leadbeater said that he is good enough to go straight into the Swansea first team and has the potential to replace former captain Ashley Williams.

Swans fans were less than optimistic about the arrival of Mawson, as many fans felt that Williams should be replaced with a more experienced option.

(Image: Twitter/Swansea City FC)

Speaking to the Barnsley Chronicle , Leadbeater said: "We liked Stones and Holgate but it's about what you need at the time.

"Back then we were not after a central defender but this time we are. We lost Ashley and we wanted a home grown lad to replace him.

"Mawson is capable and I am sure he will be involved in our next match against Chelsea.

"He's got two decent feet, is powerful in both boxes and I am really glad we have got him."