Welcome To Stamford Bridge – Chelsea Set To Sign £80,000-A-Week CB Not Stones

The time is ticking and it waits for no one. It appears that is what the Chelsea hierarchy have considered, as they have reignited their interest in Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane as John Stones’ move to Stamford Bridge seems to drag on.

Reports have claimed Everton are still resolute in their stance that Stones will not be sold, despite the England international defender reportedly making a plea to chairman Bill Kenwright that he let him go continue his footballing career under Jose Mourinho. Chelsea have had three bids – the last one being around £34m rejected by Everton, but a fourth one of about £40m is in the offing as Mourinho appears determined to sign Stones – who the Portuguese manager believes would be captain John Terry’s long term heir.

With the deal now somewhat stalling and the transfer window only a matter of days away from slamming shut, the Blues have turned their attention to Raphael Varane – who is also one of Mourinho’s long term target – should the Stones deal fail to materialise.

A France international, Varane enjoyed success under Mourinho during the Portuguese spell as manager of Real Madrid, and the centre-back could now be set to rejoin his former boss. At 22, Varane is only a year older than Stones, and the Los Blancos defender could also be a long term plan albeit he is not English.

Meanwhile, Chelsea finally got their first three points in the Premier League this season after they battled to a 3-2 victory over West Bromwich Albion at the Hawthorns. New boy Pedro made his debut and capped it with a fine goal and an assist, while Cesar Azpilicueta scored the Blues’ third goal in a gruelling encounter which saw Chelsea receive another red card – with Terry the recipient.

Jose Mourinho said after the game that he is satisfied with his team’s performance, and Chelsea will now be looking for another three points against Crystal Palace next weekend in order to reinvigorate their season.

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