. Chelsea FC are confident of signing Everton defender John Stones, despite a souring of relationship between the two clubs over the transfer of the England man, according to ESPN FC.
According to Sky Sports News, Chelsea FC had an initial A?20 million bid for John Stones turned down by Everton earlier last week, a news also confirmed by the Guardian.
Sky Sports later that week, confirmed a new Chelsea FC offer to Everton for the defender, with the Merseysiders reluctant to sell.
Everton manager Roberto Martinez had criticized Chelsea FCa s open pursuit of Stones, accusing the Londoners of unsettling the player.
The criticism by Martinez drew a sharp response from Jose Mourinho, who described Everton as a “small club”.
Chelsea FC confident of signing Stones
Despite the very public war of words between the two clubs increasing Everton’s reluctance to sell Stones, further, Chelsea FC are confident of sealing the deal for the England man as per ESPN FC.
The report says:
Chelsea remain confident of signing Everton defender John Stones despite strained relations between the two clubs over their pursuit of the England international, sources have told ESPN FC.
Despite reports of Manchester United entering the race for the Everton man, Chelsea FC remain confident of sealing the deal, as per ESPN FC.
Why are Chelsea FC chasing him?
Stones would be considered as a homegrown player in terms of the Premier League and Champions League. Therefore, the Everton man adds to Chelsea FCa s option. Further, Stones would provide cover for Branislav Ivanovic at right-back, if required.
The former Barnsley defender is seen in England as the future captain of the national side, having already made four appearances for the Three Lions. He could prove to be a long term replacement for Chelsea FC captain John Terry, with his ability acknowledged by the man himself.
a I have seen a lot of games and I am a big fan of his,a Terry was quoted saying in an interview to TalkSports.
a He pulls wide of the box and wants the ball and for a young defender to do that in the Premier League takes some guts.
a He is exceptional with both feet, he is a ball-playing centre half which you need to be these days.
a He is extremely confident. He looks to play from the back and that can only be good for English football that the likes of him are coming through. He is definitely one I have been impressed by.a