Report: Everton's John Stones hands in transfer request amid Chelsea interest

Everton defender John Stones wants to stop the rumours surrounding his future. Unfortunately for Everton fans, it's not in the manner they would have hoped.

Sky Sports is reporting that Stones, whose rumoured move to Chelsea has been one of the most protracted sagas of the summer window, has handed in a transfer request in an effort to facilitate a move to Stamford Bridge.

The 21-year-old centre-back's request, apparently handed in prior to Tuesday's training session, comes after Chelsea reportedly saw three bids for the defender rejected by Everton. The last bid was thought to be worth £30 million.

Related: Report - Chelsea won't make 4th offer until John Stones submits transfer request

The Toffees have been steadfast in their assertion that Stones will remain at Goodison Park this season, but this latest development is the clearest indication yet that the young central defender prefers a move to the reigning Premier League champions.

With John Terry aging and Gary Cahill looking sluggish early this season, Stones has apparently been identified as the ideal replacement to help solidify the Blues' defense, both in the immediate future and long term.

Everton now finds itself in an unenviable position, as keeping Stones would likely result in a disgruntled player, while selling him would mean having to sign a suitable replacement with less than a week remaining in the transfer window.