Chelsea have lodged an enquiry with Paris Saint-Germain over Brazilian defender Marquinhos as they search for an alternative to John Stones – but it has been rebuffed.
Jose Mourinho's men have been chasing Stones this summer, but have seen Everton reject multiple bids for the England international and vow he will not leave Goodison Park.
Now Chelsea may have tacitly admitted defeat in their chase of Stones by moving for Marquinhos, a player who was intensely chased by Manchester United in the winter transfer window earlier this year.
According to French radio station RMC, the Blues yesterday lodged an enquiry for the Brazil centre-back. The English giants indicated they were prepared to pay €40m to sign the 21-year-old.
However, Chelsea did not have to wait long for a response with PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi declaring Marquinhos not for sale.
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The defender is behind David Luiz and Thiago Silva in the pecking order at the Parc des Princes, but PSG are still not willing to consider his departure.
It remains to be seen what course of action Chelsea will now take with the clock ticking down on the transfer window, which closes for English clubs on Tuesday.
