But despite the latest knockback, they are expected to return a third time, although there are doubts whether they are willing to play what the Blues believe their most valuable asset is worth.
Everton have insisted that they would not be bullied into selling the England international on the cheap with claims of a Goodison Park ‘fire sale’ this summer wide of the mark and have been actively planning for him to be with them next season, unless a mega offer comes in.
Pearce, 62, who played 78 times for England before managerial spells at Man City and Nottingham Forest, told talkSPORT: “It’s strange how (we’re told) personal terms are agreed when he is an Everton player. But that’s another subject altogether.
I know Sean Dyche will be absolutely desperate to keep hold of him. He had an outstanding season last year.
“To be fair, Harry Maguire when he moved, how much was that fee? Around a similar type (£80million). In this day and age, I couldn’t put a price on players.
“It’s a lot of money, but if he is going to deliver what they think he is going to deliver, then it probably isn’t.”