Chelsea are worried that both Manchester clubs may make formal bids for Everton centre-back John Stones, and snatch him from under their noses.
The Blues have been linked with the centre-back all summer, with two formal bids already being turned down, but it’s now reported that both Manchester United and Manchester City are keen on signing him.
Chelsea have had a £20million bid rejected and also an improved £25m bid rejected, with Roberto Martinez telling the Premier League champions that Stones is valued at around £30m.
As of yet, Jose Mourinho hasn’t renewed his interest by making a third offer, and in a recent press conference he confirmed that he wouldn’t overpay for any of his transfer targets.
However, Mourinho is still desperate to sign Stones and is worried that United and City could both launch formal bids in the next few weeks and try to sign him.
Both Manchester clubs are in the market for a centre-back, with United missing out on Sergio Ramos and Nicolas Otamendi, whilst City need some depth to help out Vincent Kompany.
Stones is an ideal target for Manuel Pellegrini as he’s young and also English, which will help the club’s homegrown situation.
They’ve already signed three English players this summer to help out, with Raheem Sterling, Fabian Delph and Patrick Roberts all arriving at the Etihad Stadium.
However, Stones may be harder to sign with Martinez adamant he’s not for sale.
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt