Chelsea target John Stones has reportedly informed Roberto Martinez that he wants to leave Everton.
The England international is thought to have been the subject of a failed £20m bid by the Premier League champions earlier this summer.
According to The Express, Stones held talks with Toffees boss Martinez at the end of last season to make clear his desire to join a top-four club.
However, the same report claims that Everton will hold out for a fee in the region of £36m for the centre-back, which is likely to be out of Chelsea's reach at this stage.
It is also suggested that the Merseyside outfit are hoping that Manchester City will join the race to sign Stones - potentially sparking a bidding war for the young prospect.
Manchester United are the latest top-flight club to have been linked with the 21-year-old.
Written by
Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis
