According to Telegraph, Everton have rejected a second bid of £26m from Chelsea, for John Stones.

Chelsea have now had two successive bids rejected for the England defender, who is keen on a move to London this summer.

Chelsea Transfer: Plugging the gaps

Jose Mourinho knows the importance of signing a quality centre back this summer and John Stones has been identified as the ideal candidate.

The Ball playing centre half from Everton is expected to be the long term successor for club legend, John Terry.

Chelsea Transfer: Our way or the highway!

However, Everton’s determination to play hardball is causing a few problems in John Stones’ Chelsea transfer. The Toffees are confident they can squeeze out a higher fee, in the region of £34m.

Chelsea have struggled defensively last season and Mourinho is keen to replace Gary Cahill. Stones’ impressive displays for Everton has attracted a lot of attention from Premier League clubs.

Chelsea Transfer: United monitoring

The Everton defender is also a target for Manchester United, who are keen to sign a defender this summer.

However, Van Gaal is keen on Valencia defender, Otamendi and Stones is just a back up plan for the Red Devils.

Mourinho is thought to be preparing a third and final offer, which will be significantly close to Everton’ valuation of John Stones.

The player is keen on a move to Stamford Bridge and experience Champions League football. Despite the initial setbacks, the transfer is a matter of when and not if.