Everton encouraged to return for Jonathan Rowe after Bologna stance softens

Everton could yet complete a move for Jonathan Rowe after fresh reports from Italy suggested Bologna may be prepared to negotiate if the Premier League club returns with an improved offer.

The Toffees recently saw an opening bid of around €35 million rejected, with Bologna initially insisting they would only consider offers exceeding €55 million. However, Corriere dello Sport now claims the Serie A club's position may be softening.

According to the report, Bologna are increasingly concerned Everton will return with a higher bid before the transfer window closes.

While the Italian club rejected the opening proposal, they could reportedly be persuaded to sell if an offer of more than €45 million arrives.

Bologna have already lost key players this summer, including Remo Freuler and Santiago Castro, and would prefer not to sanction another major departure. However, the financial strength of Premier League clubs could make it difficult to refuse a significantly improved proposal.

The report adds that Rowe remains interested in returning to English football, although any move depends on Everton reaching an agreement with Bologna.

The winger joined the Italian club last summer after a difficult end to his spell at Marseille, where internal issues reportedly accelerated his departure.

Rowe gradually established himself in Serie A, producing stronger performances during the second half of the campaign.

Across the league season, the 23-year-old registered three goals and two assists in 28 appearances, while contributing 13 goal involvements in all competitions.

Everton continue searching for a new winger before the transfer deadline.

Alongside their interest in Rowe, the Merseyside club have also been linked with Galatasaray winger Barış Alper Yılmaz, with reports suggesting an opening €35 million bid was also rejected.

Whether Everton decide to increase their offer for Rowe or prioritise alternative targets remains to be seen.

Everton must decide whether to return with an improved offer as Bologna continue assessing the winger's future. If the Toffees increase their bid, negotiations could accelerate before the transfer window closes, although competition for attacking reinforcements means alternative targets remain under consideration.