Everton manager Ronald Koeman refused to be drawn on whether James McCarthy would remain at Goodison Park following the January transfer window.
McCarthy, 26, has endured an unhappy season to date, managing just four Premier League appearances under Koeman with Gareth Barry and Idrissa Gueye preferred when fit.
Matters have been complicated by a club vs. country row between the Toffees and the Republic of Ireland, after the midfielder aggravated his injury on international duty and then withdrew from the next get-together.
When asked to comment on reports that McCarthy is looking for a fresh start, the Koeman said only: "I don't know.