Everton have reopened talks with Sam Allardyce about becoming their next permanent manager

Allardyce had been involved in talks two weeks ago after Ronald Koeman was sacked, but an agreement could not be reached.

But after Everton failed with their efforts to land Watford boss Marco Silva and endured a run of five defeats in seven games under interim boss David Unsworth, they have returned to Allardyce's representatives within the last 48 hours.

And one source has told Sky Sports News that progress has been made on the key aspect of the length of the 63-year-old's contract.

It is also understood that Shakhtar Donetsk manager Paulo Fonseca has also been interviewed for the role, while Republic of Ireland's Martin O'Neill is also being considered.

Midweek PL goals on your mobile
Watch all the midweek PL goals as they go in with the Sky Sports app
Majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri is the person leading the search but has yet to make his final decision, which is expected on Tuesday.

Allardyce was initially offered a deal until the end of the season and, after pulling out of discussions, said he did not feel wanted enough by the club, and was put off by their indecision.

Allardyce has been the preferred choice of Everton director of football Steve Walsh but Moshiri has, until now, had other ideas.