Roberto Martinez is said to be livid at Chelsea's public pursuit of his player and United have asked to be kept informed if Stones is available. Manchester United have joined the race for John Stones after discreet contact with Everton.
And Louis van Gaal could have a better chance of landing the highly-rated 21-year-old defender than Stamford Bridge boss Jose Mourinho.
Everton manager Roberto Martinez is said to be furious at the public way Chelsea made their move for England centre-back Stones while the Toffees were in Singapore for the Barclay’s Asia Trophy.
And it’s believed Everton are in no hurry to do business with Chelsea after their open pursuit of Stones.
Goodison Park officials believe Chelsea’s timing of their £20 million bid has unsettled the youngster and destabilised Everton’s pre-season.
So far Chelsea’s promised improved bid for the talented star - valued at £38 million by Everton - hasn’t materialised.
But United have been on alert over Stones since identifying his potential three years ago.
And I understand they have asked to be kept informed of the situation if Everton are willing to sell Stones.
United have several key bargaining chips with Martinez reportedly keen on Old Trafford’s £7million-rated Northern Ireland centre back Jonny Evans after Everton let experienced Frenchman Sylvain Distin leave.
Evans has been told by Louis van Gaal that he can go once United have a recruited one of their summer defensive targets.
Everton would also be keen on striker Javier Hernandez, wing back Ashley Young as well as young England defender Tyler Blackett if United want to trade players as part of a swap deal for Stones plus cash.
But with United entering the race - and Arsenal also believed to be keen on Stones too - it seems Chelsea won’t have it all their own way in the chase for a player rated as one of the best defensive prospects around.
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