Schalke have informed Everton fullback Jonjoe Kenny the door remains open.
After a successful loan last season in Germany, Kenny is back in England doing his preseason with Everton.
However, there remains a confidence inside Schalke that the defender will return before the market shuts.
S04 sports chief Jochen Schneider, when asked about Kenny's situation, replied: "Patience and being flexible, that's what counts."
Schalke hope to take Kenny on a new loan, though Everton would prefer an outright sale.