Former Arsenal midfielder and Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson says in his Daily Star column that Everton defender John Stones will join Chelse...
Former Arsenal midfielder and Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson says in his Daily Star column that Everton defender John Stones will join Chelsea before the transfer window shuts on Tuesday evening.
Stones has been linked with a move to the Blues all summer, but Everton are standing firm on their stance he will not be sold. However, Goal have reported that Chelsea are prepared to offer Stones £100,000-a-week to lure him to Stamford Bridge.
The centre-back has played in every game so far this season, including Everton's 0-0 draw with Spurs but Merson believes it is only a matter of time before the move happens.
"I think it should happen. And I think it still will. Even if Chelsea do miss out on him in this window, they will get him in the next one," Merson told the Daily Star.
"They are not going anywhere. I like him as a player, and he has massive potential
"Chelsea need someone like him, who can bring the ball out and dominate a game.
"But they're buying him for the future, not for any fixtures they might have in September or October. That's why I think they'll wait if they have to."
The young defender has become a vital part of the set up at Goodison Park since arriving 2013 as David Moyes' final signing before taking over at Manchester United. His has combined with England's Phil Jagielka to form one of the fiest central defensive partnerships in the Premier League.
John Stones' duels won in the Premier League last season (67% average won).
He could prove to be a future captain of his country, and Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho may see him as a long-term replacement for John Terry.
The Blues skipper missed the 2-1 home defeat to Crystal Palace on Saturday, only the second such loss in the league for the club at Stamford Bridge under Mourinho.