Ronald Koeman has refused to discount Everton loaning Diego Costa.
Costa remains in self-imposed exile in his native Brazil after the striker’s much publicised fallout with Chelsea manager Antonio Conte during the summer.
The Spain international has been deemed surplus to requirement at the Premier League champions as he holds out for a return to Atletico Madrid.
But Costa has been urged by agent Jorge Mendes to consider a brief spell away from Stamford Bridge to remain in contention for his country’s World Cup campaign.
Koeman was previously open to enlisting the forward’s services and the Everton manager is set to discuss possible transfers after Sunday’s trip to Chelsea.
He said: “I’ve always said there is a warm welcome here for every good player, and he is a good player.
“But I don’t know. I think it’s time after Sunday to speak with the board.
“We have been really busy with games and are busy now preparing for Sunday’s match.”