Everton's 21-year-old defender John Stones has handed in a formal transfer request, according to reports.
This is the latest twist in a tireless transfer saga over the talented youngster, who has established himself as one of the best young defenders in Europe with his consistent displays for the Merseyside club over the past two-and-a-half years since his arrival from Barnsley in January of 2013.
Everton eager to keep hold of prized asset
In his most recent press briefing, the Toffees' boss Roberto Martinez was quick to silence rumours of Stones' future - coincidentally enough. With the deal to sign Ramiro Funes Mori of River Plate almost finalised, as the defender was pictured at Goodison Park during their 2-0 defeat at the hands of Manchester City on the weekend, the Spaniard denied claims he could be a possible replacement for Stones.
José Mourinho's men have had three transfer bids all rejected this summer - £20m, £26m and finally £30million pounds for the south Yorkshire-born youngster. It is believed that the Blues hierarchy are eager to complete the deal, as he'd be seen as the long-term successor to John Terry at Stamford Bridge.
If a deal was completed for Stones' services, his former side Barnsley would receive 15% of the final transfer fee, and his request to leave is in turn expected to be met by a higher offer of £40million from the west Londoners.
Terry's poor form suggests youth needs a chance
The 34-year-old captain has underperformed significantly in the spotlight recently, and many critics have claimed this could easily be Terry's last competitive campaign in the league. With the likes of Nathan Aké (on-loan), Kurt Zouma and Jake Clarke-Salter all waiting for their respective chances to break into the first-team properly, his poor form is certainly a talking point which has divided opinion.
When questioned by reporters in his conference, Martinez admitted that they're still in search of a few new arrivals at the club, but are eager to keep hold of Stones. Even though Chelsea continue to push their resolve over him, he's their star man and undoubtedly has potential to assert himself as one of the best centre-backs in world football in the not-too-distant future.
On Stones, Martinez said "it's always the same questions, always the same answers - nothing to announce, or discuss." And lastly, a question was asked as to how the club would deal with the situation if Stones were to, coincidentally hand in a transfer request, Martinez defiantly stated that there would be "no comment on that."