Jack Grealish would favour a move back to Everton if he departs Manchester City before the transfer window shuts, according to sources close to BBC Sport.
The 30-year-old England international has featured only as a substitute in City's first two matches of the new season, and incoming manager Enzo Maresca has signalled he would not stand in Grealish's way should a suitable move materialise ahead of Tuesday's deadline.
Grealish enjoyed a productive loan spell at Goodison Park last term, netting twice and setting up six goals in 20 appearances for the Toffees before his campaign was cut short by a foot injury suffered in January. That stint appears to have left a lasting impression, with the player understood to be keen on making the switch permanent or returning on loan once again.
Despite the interest, City insiders say no formal bids have yet arrived for the midfielder from any suitor this summer. However, Everton's hierarchy have kept the door open. Chief executive Angus Kinnear confirmed to BBC Radio Merseyside that the Merseyside club have stayed in dialogue with Grealish's representatives throughout the window.
Maresca, speaking to reporters on Thursday, acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the player's future but stressed his current focus remains on integrating Grealish into his squad for as long as he remains at the Etihad Stadium.
"Jack is here. Until the day he is, it is my duty to try and help him to give us the best," Maresca said. "In the next four, five days, we will see what happens. I speak with Jack almost every day."
Those comments suggest that while City are prepared to sanction a departure, the Italian coach is keeping communication open with the player as the situation develops in the final stretch of the window.
The transfer saga is complicated further by City's own interest in an Everton asset. The Premier League champions are reportedly monitoring winger Iliman Ndiaye, who has so far turned down several contract extension offers from the Toffees.
Ndiaye's situation has attracted attention beyond England too. Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal made a strong push to sign the Senegal international earlier in the summer, but the 26-year-old is said to have rejected the approach, choosing to remain in the Premier League for now.
Everton, however, are under no financial pressure to part with their forward. Ndiaye is contracted at Goodison Park until 2029, giving David Moyes' side significant leverage in any negotiations. Should City or any other suitor come calling, Everton are expected to demand a fee in the region of £70 million before even entertaining discussions.
The intertwining transfer dealings between the two clubs add an intriguing subplot to the closing days of the window. Grealish's potential return to Everton would mark a full-circle moment for the player, who impressed during his time on loan despite the injury setback, while City's pursuit of Ndiaye underscores their determination to strengthen their attacking options even as they consider offloading established first-team players.
With the deadline fast approaching, both clubs face pressing decisions. Everton will be eager to secure clarity over Grealish's future given his previous impact, while City must balance incoming interest in Ndiaye against their willingness to let Grealish leave on suitable terms.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.