Everton manager Roberto Martinez has claimed that the decision over Romelu Lukaku's future will not be made until after the World Cup.
The on-loan striker, who is due to return to Chelsea at the end of the season, has scored 15 goals in 32 games for the Toffees during the current campaign.
Despite suggesting that he would like the 20-year-old Belgian to remain at Goodison Park next year, Martinez is remaining open-minded about where the youngster could end up playing.
"The parent club, Chelsea, are delighted with his progress and the player has developed an incredible relationship with our fans. His memories will never evaporate, but we will see what's next," the Spaniard told the Liverpool Echo.
"We'll see what's the best thing for everyone. But everything will be in stages - how Chelsea are doing in their own squad and how that frees some players.
"It's going to take a bit of time and I don't think Romelu's situation is going to be resolved before the World Cup, in truth. I think it will be after the World Cup."
Everton play their final Premier League game of the season on Sunday when they travel to Hull City.
Jack Prescott
