Former Arsenal manager Unai Emery has turned down an opportunity to speak to Everton about their vacant managerial position, Spanish outlet Marca reports.
Marca says Emery rejected an approach from Everton to replace Marco Silva because he thought it was too soon to take another Premier League job.
Emery was sacked by the Gunners in November.
The Spaniard has also turned down jobs from two other Chinese clubs.
Former Napoli boss Carlo Ancelotti is the number one favourite to take over at Goodison Park, and Sky Sports reports that positive talks have taken place.
READ MORE
Arsenal lose appeal against Dowman red card in shock Fleetwood defeat
'A very sad day': Arteta despair as Arsenal stunned by Fleetwood
Arsenal stunned by fourth-tier Fleetwood in League Cup
Arsenal cruise past Lille into share of Champions League lead
Everton, however, said on Monday they had not yet offered any candidate a contract to become their new manager.
"In the 11 days since Marco Silva left the club, the Everton board has been working to recruit a new permanent manager – and has held meetings with a number of candidates.
"We can confirm that thus far no contract offer has been made and no candidate has chosen to withdraw from the process.
"While the club is keen to confirm a new permanent manager as soon as possible, the only important duty is that the right appointment is made,” the club said in a statement.
Everton confirmed Duncan Ferguson will be in the dugout for Wednesday's League Cup quarter-final at home to Leicester City.
"While our process continues, Duncan Ferguson will remain as caretaker manager and will take charge of the side for Wednesday night's [EFL] Cup quarter-final against Leicester City."
Appointed interim coach Ferguson has so far secured a 3-1 win over Chelsea and a 1-1 draw at Manchester United.
