Andre Gomes has edged nearer to rejoining Everton after rejecting West Ham.
The Hammers recently joined the Blues and their London rivals Tottenham in the hunt for Gomes, who impressed during a season-long stay on Merseyside.
But the Portugal international, 25, is understood to have turned down a move to the capital, increasing hopes that he could a permanent return to Goodison Park.
Spurs’ reluctance to pursue a deal for Gomes has further strengthened Everton’s chances despite Barcelona’s valuation of the player now exceeding £20 million.
The midfielder’s first-team prospects at the Nou Camp show no signs of improving with the impending arrival of Ajax’s Frenkie de Jong this summer.
Meanwhile Marco Silva is expected to offer Leighton Baines a new deal despite passing up the chance to extend Phil Jagielka’s stay after 12 years.