Everton striker speaks out over failed £30m Chelsea bid for John Stones

Steven Naismith (right) says he hopes John Stones won't be sold to Chelsea or Man Utd this summer

STEVEN NAISMITH hopes Everton reject a final Chelsea bid to sign team-mate John Stones.

 

Blues boss Jose Mourinho has been chasing Stones, 21, for much of the summer, while Manchester United are also reportedly interested in the ace.

Chelsea saw a £30million offer snubbed by Toffees bosses yesterday - their third bid for the England youngster.

 

And Scotland striker Naismith told Sky Sports he expects Stones to remain at Goodison Park this summer.

"We definitely want him to stay - he is a fantastic guy and footballer and a mainstay in our team," Naismith said.

 

"You want your best players to be here to hopefully continue bringing success to Everton."

Express Sport exclusively revealed yesterday that Chelsea are considering an improved offer to secure the talented centre-half.

But they may struggle to land him as Everton set their valuation at around £40m

 

United manager Louis van Gaal, who has missed the opportunity to sign Valencia's Manchester City-bound ace Nicolas Otamendi, is said to be keen on Stones.

Van Gaal has already spent around £75m on transfer this summer and is reportedly willing to part with more cash before deadline day.