Alex Nyarko could be on his way back to Everton after the 14-day period Monaco were given to make his loan spell a permanent one ran out. The French club have not yet been in touch with The Blues about the player, as doubts persist whether they remain keen on the Ghanaian midfielder.

And Everton chief executive Michael Dunford said: "There has been no contact from France. Other clubs are now free to express an interest in Alex should they so wish, but at present there have been no takers."

As things stand for the midfielder, who vowed never to play for Everton again, he will have to report back to Bellefield for pre-season training with the rest of the squad.

Monaco are still believed to be interested in him after he played almost the full French season for them, scoring two goals, but they are clearly in no hurry to spend a large amount of money.

Monaco boss Didier Deschamps recently signed defensive midfielder Vassilis Zikos from Greek club AEK Athens on a four-year contract, and with the French outfit said to be short of money, any move for the 28-year-old is now in doubt.

Rangers have also been linked with Nyarko, and Everton will be hoping the Ibrox club renew their interest in him, so as to boost David Moyes's transfer budget.