Poll: Is John Stones jumping the gun with Everton transfer request?

In recent weeks it’s become clear that contracts mean very little to the modern footballer.

From Raheem Sterling’s ‘illness’ that got mysteriously better when Liverpool buckled to Manchester City’s persuasions, to Lewis Grabban going AWOL from the Norwich team hotel to force a move back to Bournemouth, players are becoming more adept at getting what they want.

The latter may not have achieved his target yet, but with the Cherries not afraid to splash the cash over the summer, it looks as if it is only a matter of time.

His move back to Dean Court wouldn’t be the biggest move that could be potentially pushed through with the players’ urgings, that honour would go to John Stones.

Jose Mourinho’s admiration for the Everton defender has been plain for all to see throughout this transfer window.

Chelsea have reportedly made three bids for the England centre-back, the latest for around £30m.

The Toffees had rejected all approaches for their prized asset, but proceedings changed paths on Tuesday night, when Stones handed in a transfer request to the Merseyside club.

With less than a week to go before the window closes, it wouldn’t leave much time for his current club to find a replacement, but it appears the 21-year-old has made up his mind.

But is he doing the right thing by wanting out?

The draw of the champions is obvious. The opportunity to challenge for the Premier League title, Champions League football, as well as a healthy pay rise would mean a switch to west London would certainly have its perks.

However when it comes to game time it becomes less clear. Stones would undoubtedly been seen as a future replacement for John Terry in the Stamford Bridge back-line, but whether he would immediately oust him in the starting line up remains to be seen.

Terry’s substitution against Manchester City, and subsequent red card at West Brom mean he is already set to miss plenty of time on the pitch, but that doesn’t necessarily mean Stones would be an instant replacement.

With a spot in the England squad for the 2016 Euros in his sights Stones will know that he needs to be playing, whether that is guaranteed at Chelsea this season is unclear.

Have your say in today’s poll…

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All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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