Everton manager Roberto Martinez critical of Blues’ John Stones bid

John Stones Everton

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Everton manager Roberto Martinez has voiced his disapproval over the manner in which Premier League champions Chelsea have made public their bid for defender John Stones.

Jose Mourinho confirmed the Stamford Bridge side had made an offer of £20m to take the England international from Goodison Park but his opposite number feels Chelsea should not have made the offer public.

“There is the disappointment of a club making a statement to the press and making it openly,” said Martinez.

“I don’t think we’d do it and speak about a player. John Stones is an Everton player, full stop.

“We are not a selling club. We are not a club that needs to be worried about what other clubs put through the press.”
Everton are under no pressure to sell Stones, with the 21-year-old having another four years to run on his current deal at the club.

Mourinho responded to the criticism from Martinez by insisting the Merseysiders should make their position clear if they have no desire to allow the player leave.

“When the transfer window is open, every club and player is open to bids,” said the Portuguese.

“Bids come for our players and we make bids for other players. The process can be so simple.

“I would advise Roberto Martinez to do the same thing I do. If I don’t want to accept any offer, I say ‘I don’t accept any offer’. He can make it very, very easy.”

Stones made 23 Premier League appearances for Everton last season and he has been capped four times by England.

Everton are 1.75 to win their opening Premier League game on Saturday 8th August against Watford at Goodison Park.

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