Everton feels the defender should stay put at Goodison
Everton forward Steven Naismith has urged central defender John Stones to remain with the club this summer, amid interest from Premier League champions Chelsea.
Two bids have gone in for the 21 year-old, thought to be in the region of £20-25 million, however the Toffees have rebuffed both advances thus far.
Jose Mourinho is in the market for a young defender to eventually replace club captain and defensive icon John Terry, and identified Stones who has similar attributes to the former England international.
Naismith Tells him to Stay
However, Naismith told Sky Sports: ”Everton is a fantastic club for him and they have shown in the past, and even with the core group of young players at the moment, that there is so much talent here.
”There are not many defenders as composed and read the game as well as him. That’s why Everton went out and bought him when it was just young potential and they are reaping the rewards at the moment.”
It’s unclear whether Chelsea will attempt a third bid for the former Barnsley man this summer, however it’s clear boss Roberto Martinez and the Everton board won’t entertain any offers at the current value being offered.
By Matt Derrig
