Everton manager David Moyes has started planning for next season, even though no agreement has been reached with the club over a new contract.
Moyes has said he wanted to wait until the end of the campaign before deciding whether to extend his time at Goodison Park into a 12th year but, in the meantime, he is taking an active role in preparing pre-season and discussing transfer policy.
Big call: Everton manager David Moyes will make a decision on his future in the summer
Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott is one possible target, with Moyes open to re-signing the England international four years after he left.
The news will buoy Everton fans who have become anxious about Moyes, the third longest-serving manager with one club in the Premier League, leaving.
Everton are still vulnerable if a big club in the Premier League or Bundesliga come in for him. But by throwing his energies into next season, he is indicating his future remains at Everton.