Chelsea are expecting Kurt Zouma to return to Stamford Bridge for the start of pre-season this summer.
Everton want to sign the on-loan defender on a permanent deal but the Blues face a battle to strike an agreement.
Zouma remains coy on his future but has made no secret of the fact he has enjoyed the campaign at Goodison.
Following Friday night's win over Burnley, the France international said: “We’ve still got a game to go and then we’ll see what’s going to happen next."
But it is understood that Chelsea are planning to begin their summer preparations with Zouma in the squad.
Mauricio Sarri's side travel to Japan in mid-July for friendly games with Kawasaki Frontale and Barcelona.
Everton boss Marco Silva says the club will do all they can to sign the 24-year-old on a long-term contract but accepts the ball is in Chelsea's court.
And the Blues' hopes of landing the centre-half could hinge on the outcome of a FIFA hearing into the club's two window transfer ban.
Key Everton transfer figure opens up on deadline day in Barcelona, transfers and contracts
An Appeals Committee met in Zurich last month and a decision is expected soon with the lifting of Chelsea's suspension likely to help Everton's cause.
Kurt Zouma emerged as a priority target for Everton - but Chelsea transfer ban could play havoc
