Chelsea FC are likely to make an increased offer of A?26M for Everton defender John Stones according to reports in ESPN FC.
According to the Sky Sports News, Chelsea FC had a A?20 million bid for John Stones turned down by Everton earlier in the week, a . news also confirmed by the Guardian.
The report said:
Everton rejected their (Chelsea FC) opening A?20m bid for the defender. The Merseysiders received the unexpected offer from Jos Mourinhoa s Premier League champions at the end of a day of pre-season preparations here.
Chelsea FC preparing new bid
Both, the Guardian and Sky Sports were reporting earlier in the week that Chelsea FC are set to table an increased offer for the defender.
Sky Sports report says:
Sky Sports News HQ understands that Chelsea are likely to make an increased offer for Everton defender John Stones.
Everton insist the player is not for sale, but Chelsea are still hopeful of reaching an agreement to sign the 21-year-old.
ESPN FC say that the offer could be in the region of 26 million GBP.
Chelsea are ready to step up their efforts to sign Everton defender John Stones and make a second bid of A?26 million, sources have told ESPN FC.
Stones happy at Everton
a I am very happy at Everton,a Stones said on Thursday as reported by the Guardian. a My aim right now is to try to nail down a regular spot in this Everton team and hopefully that will take care of playing for England. I have to keep learning from the likes of Phil Jagielka and keep progressing at this club.a
However, John Stones is paid 30,000 GBP per week at Everton. A move to Chelsea FC would earn the player a significant pay rise, something that Everton will not be able to compete with.
Also Read: Roberto Martinez Blasts Chelsea FC For Manner Of John Stones Chase ; Says Everton Never Do It
Why are Chelsea FC chasing him?
Stones would be considered as a homegrown player in terms of the Premier League and Champions League and therefore adds to Chelsea FCa s option. Further, the Everton defender would provide cover for Branislav Ivanovic at right-back if required and with John Terry getting older, he could be a long term replacement for the talismanic captain.
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 and his ability was acknowledged by the Chelsea FC captain.
a I have seen a lot of games and I am a big fan of his,a Terry said.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