Report: Everton's John Stones hands in transfer request amid Chelsea interest

Everton defender John Stones has reportedly handed in a formal transfer request amid interest from Chelsea and Manchester United with a week until deadline day.

Premier League champions Chelsea have been heavily linked with a move for the 21-year-old this summer and now it seems that Stones is trying to take matters into his own hands.

According to multiple reports this afternoon, Stones has told the Toffees that he wants to leave, with United said to be considering a battle with Chelsea for his signature.

The England international is thought to be keen on a move to Chelsea, where he would join compatriots John Terry and Gary Cahill in the heart of the Blues' defence.

Stones, who still has four years left on his Everton contract, joined the Toffees from Barnsley in January 2013, last season scoring once in 28 appearances.