Everton manager Roberto Martinez has reiterated his desire to retain the services of defender John Stones, who has been the subject of interest from Premier League champions Chelsea this summer.
The Toffees have rejected three bids from Stamford Bridge for the 21-year-old but Standard Sport understands the Blues are expected to make another offer before the transfer window closes.
Stones, who has four England caps, is considered to be one of the brightest defensive prospects in the top tier, and Martinez is determined to keep him at Goodison Park.
"We want him wearing Everton blue come September," Martinez told the Sun. "It puts a smile on your face when you see John Stones defending the way he does."
Although Manchester City secured a 2-0 victory over Everton on Sunday afternoon Stones produced a superb individual performance against Manuel Pellegrini's men.
Martinez praised the youngster's display and believes that the centre back has an enviable level of maturity given his tender years: "He's an incredible footballer and to be able to organise at such a young age shows what a talent he is."
Chelsea wide boys: How they fared
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has the luxury of John Terry, Gary Cahill and Kurt Zouma within his first-team squad but is keen to add further options to a defence that has conceded seven goals in their opening three Premier League fixtures.
