Everton star John Stones has asked to leave the club in order to push through a transfer to Chelsea.
The Blues have made it public knowledge that they are interested in signing the young centre-back, and after already having one formal bid turned down, they are set to launch a new and improved second bid over the next few days.
Chelsea saw their £20million offer rejected last week but are set to go in with a new bid worth around £24m, which they are hopeful will be accepted especially after Stones revealing his desire to leave Goodison Park.
The 21-year-old is expected to be a major part of Roberto Martinez‘s team next season, but after hearing of Jose Mourinho‘s interest and admiration, he has now told officials in Merseyside that he wants to complete a transfer away.
According to some reports, Stones first spoke about his future at the end of last season, claiming he felt ready for a move to a bigger club.
Despite this, Everton are still expected to hold firm on the defender and will wait until Chelsea up their offer to at least £30m.
The England international had a breakthrough campaign last season and was expected to be Everton’s main centre-back alongside Phil Jagielka for the 2015/2016 campaign.
However, it now looks like The Toffees will struggle to keep hold of the star after Chelsea declared their interest.
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt