There seems to be yet another update on the most drawn out transfer saga this summer. John Stones’ transfer to Chelsea is set to drag on further.

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is a keen admirer of the England defender and spent all summer chasing the Everton star. However, the Toffees were determined to hold on to the player and knocked back four bids from the Premier League champions.

In the latest developments, Chelsea are set to continue their pursuit of Stones next year, when the transfer window reopens in January.

Mourinho ready to submit fifth bid for John Stones as Chelsea aim January transfer

Despite claims from Roberto Martinez (Everton Manager) and Jon Woods (club director), that Stones is not for sale at any price, Chelsea are set to come in with a fifth improved offer in January.

According to reports, Chelsea are now set to smash the 40 million pound barrier for the 21 year old defender.

Jose Mourinho has desperate to sign a young defender, as a successor to John Terry. But the sharp decline in Ivanovic’s form has forced the Portuguese to go all in for Stones this season.

Considering that Everton rejected all of Chelsea’ advances during January, it is extremely unlikely that they will sanction a transfer in the middle of the season.

It will certainly be another interesting window if Chelsea do come in with a fifth offer. Can Everton resist another mega-money offer if so, for how long

Meanwhile, Ivanovic is on his way out of Chelsea. The Serbian was one of the best defenders in the Premier League last season, but his dip in form has cost the Blues far too much in the recent months.

The Serbian’s contract is up in the summer and there are no plans to offer him a new deal at the moment.