Everton manager Roberto Martinez has admitted that talk linking the Toffee’s young centre-back has unsettled the 21-year-old, as Everton make their preparations for the new season.
When asked if a move to one of the Premiership giants had affected Stones Martinez said: “Yes, but that’s something you improve on as you get more mature.
“You suffer when you are injured and not in the team and can’t enjoy your football. He’s a young talent and doing well.”
The Everton boss refused to put a price tag on the English international, adding: “John is an Everton player and there’s nothing else to talk about.”
Chelsea meanwhile has already had two bids knocked back, with the general consensus being that it will take a bid of around £34 million in order to get Everton to part with their prized possession.
In other Everton news Spaniard Martinez is looking to bring in three new players before the transfer window closes at the end of the month.
He said: “We need to bring more three players into the squad.
“We will never bring a player in for the sake of it and to fill a position. We are looking for the right characteristics.”
