John Stones puts in transfer request

Everton and England defender John Stones has put in an official transfer request after weeks of speculation over a move to Premier League Champions Chelsea.

The highly rated defender has kept a dignified silence over the increasing speculation with a move to Stamford Bridge but with the transfer window imminent, the young England international has finally put in a request to force through a move to Jose Mourinho’s side.

Speculation has seen Chelsea come out as front runners for the signature of Jones, though Manchester United have also been reported to be interested and should Everton agree to the request, Louis van Gaal could make a move for the defender and rival Chelsea over the signing.

Stones has been the subject of two bids already rejected by Everton but boss Roberto Martinez will be hoping the board reject the request, however it seems likely that with Stones wanting to leave and a big transfer fee looming, it could be best for the Toffee’s to sell.

The Everton defender at just 21 years of age is seen as a natural replacement for the ageing John Terry at Chelsea but could also make the move to Old Trafford, with Manchester United yet to settle with a first choice back four. Stones has four England caps to his name and is likely to become England’s long term centre-half and will only benefit from a move to play in one of Europe’s top sides and in the Champions League.