Chelsea and Newcastle are keen on signing Everton forward Anthony Gordon before next Tuesday's transfer deadline.
Both clubs tried to sign the 21-year-old in the summer but neither could agree a fee with the Toffees.
However, there is a belief Everton may be more open to a sale this month in order to generate funds for Frank Lampard's replacement as manager, although it is unlikely either would pay the £60m Everton would ideally want.
The situation is complicated as it is not known how long it will take Everton to name a new manager.
Nevertheless, it is expected both clubs will step up their efforts to sign Gordon, who was an unused substitute in Saturday's 2-0 defeat at West Ham, which proved to be Lampard's last game in charge.