RB Leipzig manager Ralf Rangnick has conceded that it is "very unlikely" his side will persuade Everton to offload Ademola Lookman.
The 21-year-old enjoyed a positive loan spell with the Bundesliga side in 2017-18, directly contributing to eight goals in 11 league appearances in the second half of the campaign.
Leipzig made clear their intentions to sign Lookman on a permanent deal in the summer, but Everton blocked the Englishman's exit against his wishes.
Rangnick now sounds less confident about striking a deal, however, telling Leipziger Volkszeitung: "It's very unlikely that Everton will give him away."
Lookman has fought his way into Marco Silva's starting lineup thanks to some promising displays from the bench, playing 78 minutes of the 1-1 draw with Newcastle United in midweek.
