Everton are close to finalising the re-signing of Dele Alli.
The England international’s contract with Sean Dyche’s side expired last month but he is remaining with the club to continue his injury rehabilitation.
However Goodison Park chiefs have since been exploring the viability of Dele rejoining their ranks if a deal can be brokered with his old club Tottenham.
His original move to the Blues in January 2022 was part of a structured deal which would see the Londoners command several performance-related fees.
An initial £10 million payment was due once Dele made 20 appearances for the club but made only 13 in all competitions under the previous arrangement.
Everton are understood to be confident that a new agreement can be struck with the Lilywhites to afford the playmaker a second spell on Merseyside.
Now 28, Dele’s last meaningful involvement for the club arrived at the end of 2021/22 as a substitute in their relegation-saving win over Crystal Palace.