Romelu Lukaku urges John Stones to snub interest from Chelsea and Mancheser United

Romelu Lukaku has urged John Stones to snub a move to Chelsea or Manchester United. Everton's striker said the defender should continue his development under Roberto Martinez.

Lukaku moved to the Merseyside club from Chelsea in 2014 after spending a year on loan, having failed to secure a first team spot under José Mourinho. The Belgian has urged Stones to follow his lead and stay at the club and develop his skills on the pitch, instead of playing second fiddle at the home of the Champions. Stones is likely to be third choice at Stamford Bridge, behind Gary Cahill and John Terry, along with Kurt Zouma for company.

The Red Devils are also on the lookout for Stones, having had their approach for Sergio Ramos rejected. Ramos has signed a new contract with Real Madrid.

The Toffees have put up a £40m ($63m) price tag for anyone to secure Stones services, according to the Independent. Roberto Martinez, also talking to Guardian, stated the defender has not put in a transfer request, as is being suggested by the papers.

The manager added that they are fully committed to preparing for their game against Manchester City on Sunday. The Citizens have been the most prolific team in the league hus far, having scored six goals, including a 3-0 win over Chelsea at the Etihad.

Lukaku stressed that Stones need to put his head down and look to get more experience in first-team football, especially with the Euros round the corner. Stones will be a contender for a place alongside Gary Cahill in the competition, should he continue his good form with Everton.

"To be fair John is in a good situation at a good club which believes in him. He is playing and is learning a lot from Phil Jagielka," the Belgium international said, as quoted by the Mirror.

"He's been here two years now, but this is the year where he really needs to confirm he is the top player he can be. He is here in a good place. He needs to keep on doing what he's doing. He has the Euros coming up, so why go?" he added.