Everton have opened with AC Milan about a loan move for Gerard Deulofeu.
Deulofeu is keen to secure a switch to the Serie A giants after seeing his first-team prospects highly limited under Ronald Koeman this season.
Middlesbrough emerged as potential suitors but the Spain international remains keen on Milan despite the Blues’ initial apprehension to consider their offer.
The Italian club are keen to secure Deulofeu on a dry loan for the rest of this season, which prevents any obligation to sign him permanently in the summer.
But Milan chief executive Adriano Galliani has confirmed that negotations are now taking place between the two parties over a deal for the 22-year-old.
“We are talking for Deulofeu, but there is no agreement yet,” he told Mediaset Premium.
“Everton know full well we can only do loans or with option to buy. Plus there are these pro-Barcelona clauses.
“Tomorrow we will discuss it and try to find a solution, otherwise we’ll remain with the squad as we are.
“I made a pledge, that as long as I am the CEO of Milan, I will think about this club 24 hours a day. I am absolutely concentrated on the Rossoneri.
“I’ll only think about my future after the closing.”