Chelsea have been told to stump up £40m if they want to land long-term defensive target John Stones, according to the Daily Telegraph.
The 21-year-old has impressed since moving to Goodison Park two and a half years ago, and is a player with a bright future who has already proven himself at Premier League level.
Jose Mourinho has seen his Chelsea side concede five goals in their opening two Premier League fixtures of the season and surprisingly opted to sub club captain John Terry at half-time during his side’s 3-0 defeat at Man City on Sunday.
The Daily Telegraph states that Chelsea are ready to launch a third bid for Everton starlet John Stones, with a £30m offer set to be made for the former Barnsley man. Even though the Toffees will ask for £40m, the source believes Jose Mourinho still believes the player is worthy of the sum.
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Stones impressed during Everton’s 3-0 away win at Southampton on Saturday and is a regular in Roy Hodgson’s England national team squad. Previously, reports suggested that the versatile defender, who can play both at full-back or as a centre-back, is keen on a move to Stamford Bridge (London Evening Standard via the Independent).
Chelsea could well do with fresh defensive options, especially as young French talent Kurt Zouma arguably looks more comfortable in a defensive midfield role than he does in central defence.