John Stones to Chelsea: Everton director Jon Woods filmed saying defender will not be sold, despite £40m transfer talk
Toffees chief insists they won't sell England defender
Footage has emerged of Everton director Jon Woods reassuring a supporter that John Stones will not be sold to Chelsea.
The video was filmed at Goodison Park after the 2-0 defeat to Manchester City on Sunday afternoon but Stones, who has remained silent since the Blues announced their interest in May, has since reportedly handed in a transfer request.
Jose Mourinho has made three attempts to sign the England international but has seen bids of £20m, £26m, and £30m rejected by the Merseyside club.
While it is generally expected that Everton will eventually sell the 21-year-old before the closure of the transfer window, the footage, which has been shared widely on social media, offers fresh hope to Toffees' fans.
Asked whether the club would consider selling their prized asset, Woods replies: "I won't sell him, Bill [Kenwright, chairman] won't sell him, there's a handful of days to go."
Chelsea are seeking a long-term replacement for skipper John Terry but have been forced to act quickly after the former England captain was sent off during the 3-2 win over West Bromwich Albion at the weekend.
The dismissal followed an unprecedented decision by Mourinho to substitute Terry at half-time as the Blues were defeated 3-0 by Manchester City a fortnight ago.
Stones signed for Roberto Martinez's men from Barnsley in 2013 and has since made 47 appearances for the club.
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