Everton may be forced to give up their chase for Marco Silva with Watford holding firm in their stance to keep the Portuguese at Vicarage Road.

The Independent is reporting that the Toffees have turned their attention elsewhere following a fortnight of stalemate between the Goodison Park club and the Hornets, who have rejected two bids of £10 million for their boss.

Certainly, their stance has not softened to an approach from Everton, who have been searching for a replacement for Ronald Koeman for more than six weeks now, and outlets have been briefed that the 40-year-old is not for sale at any cost.

That would leave the only exit route for Silva via a resignation letter to owner Gino Pozzo - but it is understood he does not want to force a move which is not sanctioned by the club.

With that being the case, it appears his immediate future remains with the Hornets, although what happens when the next club comes calling remains to be seen.