Everton boss Roberto Martinez: 'John Stones has not put in a transfer request'

Everton manager Roberto Martinez has rubbished reports that defender John Stones has lodged a transfer request amid interest from Chelsea.

The Merseyside outfit are said to have rejected three bids from the Premier League champions, and are braced for a fourth offer reportedly worth £40m.

Overnight reports claimed that the 21-year-old England international has tried to force the move by putting in a transfer request, but when asked about the rumour in today's press conference, Martinez said: "Not at all.

"It's been the hot topic of this transfer window and will be highlighted every day the window is open, but our focus is only the games."

Stones joined Everton from Barnsley in 2013.