Anthony Gordon has told Everton he has no intention of returning to his boyhood club as he tries to force a move to Newcastle United.
Gordon, 21, is a target for high-flying Newcastle but Everton want around £55million for the winger. He has missed the last three days of training at Everton's Finch Farm base - although the first of these was a planned absence.
The clubs are in formal talks but yet to agree a fee. Chelsea were also interested in Gordon, who has 18 months left on his contract, last summer.