Everton however will reject any bids that come in
Chelsea are preparing to launch a fresh bid for Everton defender John Stones, with some reports claiming they will offer up to £30million.
The Blues are prepared to make Stones one of the highest transfer fees ever for a British player, matching what Manchester United paid for Rio Ferdinand when they signed him from Leeds United.
However, The Toffees are reluctant to sell and will reportedly snub any formal bids that come in for the young centre-back.
Everton Have History of Keeping Players
Roberto Martinez has reiterated how important it is for him to keep his team together for next season, and despite big interest in Stones and James McArthur, he is confident he can do that.
Everton have been used to big teams sniffing around their players in transfer windows, with Phil Jagielka, Leighton Baines, Ross Barkley and Seamus Coleman all attracting interest.
They did cave in with Marouane Fellaini when United bid for him, but as for the others, they are still at Goodison Park.
Bid Rejected
As for Stones, Chelsea launched a formal £20m bid for him yesterday, but saw it rejected by the Merseyside outfit, but a second bid is expected sooner rather than later from Jose Mourinho and co.
The Blues highly rate Stones and see him as a long-term replacement for John Terry, and that is why they are prepared to go up to £30m to sign him.
The 21-year-old is predicted a big season ahead after Slyvain Distin left the club, and despite the interest shown by the Premier League champions, Stones is seemingly happy in Merseyside.
Stones Happy at Everton
“My aim going into the season is to try to nail down a regular spot in this Everton team and hopefully that will take care of playing for England as well,” said Stones, who signed a new five year contract last season.
“I want to keep learning from the likes of Phil Jagielka and keep progressing at this club.”
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt
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