Abramovich sanctions £45m transfer fee, defender to join club in January, Man Utd to lose out

The Express reports that Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is adamant on bringing the England international to Stamford Bridge, and he is prepared to make a £40 m bid for the 21-year old.

The Blues made four failed bids for the Everton defender in the summer transfer window, but failed to sign the player after a long drawn out transfer saga.

According to the report, Jose Mourinho has the backing of club owner Roman Abramovich in the pursuit of the defender. Stones currently have three and a half years left on his contract with the Toffees, but manager Roberto Martinez is afraid that he won’t be able to hold onto his valuable youngster for long amid the strong interests from Premier League big boys.

Man Utd are also reportedly interested in Stones’ services and a bidding war for the player could see the transfer fee increased to about £45 m.

He has established himself in the Everton’s starting eleven and has made 11 league appearances this season. Any potential move will eventually depend on the defender’s decision about his future.