Roberto Martinez has indicated that Everton are set to turn down Chelsea target John Stones’ transfer request.
Chelsea are working hard to prise the defender away from Goodison Park this summer but have seen at least two of their bids rejected by Everton over the last few weeks.
The England international decided to take matters into his own hands last night by submitting a transfer request, to force the club to allow him to join the Premier League champions.
Everton have remained adamant that Stones is not for sale and Martinez has indicated that the transfer request will have very little effect on their views on the saga.
The Toffees boss said that even though they might get huge money from Stones’ sale, it is too late in the window to indentify and buy a replacement for the defender.
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"Sometimes money can't buy everything and that is going to be a very strong statement at Everton", Martinez was quoted as saying by the BBC.
"This is not a moment when we can use any money to get us stronger."
Martinez also believes Everton chairman Bill Kenwright will do the right thing and is confident that he will not be swayed by the money on offer.
The Everton boss reiterated that he is keen to keep Stones at the club and wants the defender to enjoy his football.
"We have a chairman who will do the right thing for the club and for the team and, as a true Evertonian, we are clear he will not be easily influenced in taking the money and accepting things which will clearly make our team weaker.
"The situation with John is very clear.
“We care about him, we will protect him and make sure we give him everything we can to allow him to enjoy his football."
