Everton officially reject Stones' transfer request

Chelsea have been chasing John Stones for the bulk of the summer transfer window, but Everton have turned down every offer that the Blues have made for the player. Stones, apparently frustrated with his employer, and looking to move to London, responded by submitting a formal transfer request. On Thursday, Everton published their response on the club's website:

Everton Football Club has rejected a transfer request from John Stones.

Since the start of the transfer window, we have resolutely turned down offers from another Premier League football club for our player.

John is not for sale and he will remain a highly valued member of our first team squad.

Stones is clearly a valued member of the Everton family, so much so, that the chairman very publicly told the player that his desire to leave doesn't matter. Everton want the player to stay even if he doesn't share that desire, and won't allow him to leave, whatever compensation Chelsea offer for his services.

Unfortunately for Chelsea fans hoping to see the player arrive in London, this should end any speculation that he'll be arriving this summer. It will be interesting to see how it affects Everton in the long run, however, especially in how young, talented players handle negotiations going forward.