Manchester United plot revenge on Chelsea by swooping for John Stones

United's nose has been bloodied by the champions but they are still swinging.

Somewhere out there, in this crazy, crazy world, Ed Woodward is flying into another city to set the wheels in motion for a transfer that may never happen. Otamendi, Ramos, Pedro - all have been heftily linked with moves to Old Trafford [sometimes by us] only to chose improved pay packets or moves elsewhere... and improved pay packets. United fans may still be reeling over the confirmed Otamendi (Manchester City) and Pedro (Chelsea) transfers but a glimmer of crazy hope has emerged. The Mirror report that United are still well in the hunt for Everton defender John Stones. United's number one transfer priority is getting in a central defender and Stones is top of the list. United and Everton have traded the likes of Wayne Rooney, Phil Neville, Tim Howard and Marouane Fellaini in recent years and both clubs, reportedly, have a good working relationship. The paper also claimed that Stones, who is also on Chelsea's wishlist, had put in a transfer request but Toffees boss Roberto Martinez firmly rejected that notion at his press conference, this morning. Whether Stones ends up in Manchester or London, it will cost his suitors north of £35m. Arsene Wenger has also been rejecting transfer speculation this morning. The Arsenal manager has told reporters there is scant likelihood of Mesut Ozil joining Turkish side Besiktas before the transfer window closes. One midfielder that should be joining Besiktas this week, however, is Liverpool's Lucas Leiva. [Sky Sports] The Gunners have also been linked with ANOTHER midfielder. Marca report that Arsenal and Liverpool are in the market for Real Madrid's Asier Illarramendi. He cost Los Blancos €32m back in 2013 but has only featured in 25 games over two seasons. He would be available for €16m. Southampton boss Ronald Koeman attempted to quell transfer murmurs around St Mary's, last night, by claiming there had been ZERO BIDS so far this summer for Sadio Mane or Victor Wanyama - respective targets for Manchester United and Tottenham. Aston Villa are trying to clear out the dead footballing wood at the club before the transfer window closes. Tim Sherwood has told Kieran Richardson, Charles N'Zogbia and Philippe Senderos they can all hop to. [The Star]