According to reports in the English media, Chelsea have had a 20 million pound bid rejected for Everton defender, John Stones.
It is believed that Everton are holding out for a fee in excess of 30 million pounds and the Blues will have to raise their offer significantly if they are to land their man.
Jose Mourinho knows the importance of improving his defence this summer and has identified John Stones as the perfect successor to the ageing John Terry. Stones is one of the best young centre backs in the world and has always been linked with a move away from Everton.
However, with four years remaining on his current deal Stones is likely to command a substantial transfer fee. Furthermore, the 49 million pound transfer of Raheem Sterling has raised the bar for home grown talents in the market and Everton are likely to demand a premium like their neighbors.
After a mixed season from Gary Cahill, it is imperative that Chelsea look to replace him if they want to succeed in Europe. Since joining the Blues from Bolton, Cahill has been an impressive presence at the back. But the England defender looked porous throughout last season and put the team under unnecessary pressure at times last season.
Kurt Zouma is nailed on to come into the first team fold this season after impressive cameos last season. Mourinho is keen to pair him with Stones and put together a talented young centre back partnership that can last another decade.
Stones has been extensively scouted by Manchester United as well, as reported by the Mail in June.
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