Everton supporters hoping to see Jack Grealish back at Hill Dickinson Stadium have been handed some unwelcome news, with the Blues reportedly cooling their interest as AC Milan consider a late move.
Only last week, the prospect of a return appeared very much alive.
Chief executive Angus Kinnear confirmed Everton had remained in contact with Grealish and Manchester City after the winger’s loan spell ended in the summer.
Kinnear also spoke warmly about the 30-year-old’s attachment to Everton, saying he had “fallen in love with the right shade of blue”.
Six days later, the picture is rather less clear.
Football Insider reports that David Moyes is no longer convinced about pursuing a permanent deal and that Everton’s interest has cooled ahead of the deadline.
AC Milan now linked with Grealish
AC Milan are now said to be interested, although the Italian club would reportedly want City’s asking price to fall below £10million before making their move.
Grealish staying at the Etihad remains possible too.
He has featured in City’s opening two competitive games under Enzo Maresca and came off the bench during Sunday’s 2-1 Premier League victory over Bournemouth.
For Evertonians, the timing of the latest report will be disappointing.
Grealish became a popular figure during his season on Merseyside and chose to continue his rehabilitation with Everton after injury brought his campaign to an early end.
Kinnear’s comments last week suggested the door had certainly not been closed.
It still hasn’t. This is one report rather than confirmation of Everton’s position, and the situation could change again before the deadline.
But if Milan’s interest develops while Everton stand back, the reunion many supporters wanted may not happen.
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