Everton defender Kurt Zouma is only on loan until the end of the season, but boss Marco Silva is hoping the form of the Toffees can persuade the Frenchman to stay put at Goodison Park.
Zouma has been a key part of the Everton defence this season, and has formed a solid partnership alongside Michael Keane.
His parent club Chelsea have a two-window transfer ban that was handed to them by FIFA, which more than complicates things.
With the Blues not being able to sign any new defenders, Zouma could play a part in Maurizio Sarri's plans next season.
"There is always a chance but it is not just in our hands," Silva explained. "They (Zouma and Andre Gomes, on loan from Barcelona) are happy here, this is a good sign.
"That means they are performing, they are enjoying (their football) and they are also helping us.
"We are happy with them, that is true, and it is up to us to do what we shall do to try and keep them.
"It is not just in our hands, the players and their clubs have to decide together. At the right moment, we will do something."
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