Chelsea have received another boost in their pursuit of Everton defender John Stones, despite already having their first three bids for the 21-year-old star rejected.
According to the Daily Mirror, Stones is keen to leave Everton and is ready to hand in a transfer request, indicating that he is ready to leave Goodison Park.
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is keen to bolster defence before the closure of the summer transfer window following his side’s sluggish start to the season.
The Blues defence had an uncharacteristic meltdown against in the 3-0 loss to Manchester City, opening the door for more aggressive spending in the transfer window.
Everton boss Roberto Martinez has repeatedly claimed that the star defender is not for sale, but the Toffees are understood to be willing to sell him for £40m.
This would easily mark the highest transfer fee for a Premier League defender, which is currently held by Manchester United for Rio Ferdinand at £30m.
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