Crewe Alexandra manager Steve Davis is expecting teenage striker Nick Powell to leave Gresty Road this summer.
The 18-year-old is believed to be close to completing a move to Manchester United, with the Premier League club reportedly keen to then loan the player out in order for him to continue his development elsewhere.
It had been suggested that Powell may return to Crewe, where he scored 16 goals last season, however Davis has ruled out such a scenario.
"Nick is still with us, but I am sure talks are still ongoing with his agent and clubs," Davis told Crewe's official website. "These things take time and rightly so because all parties have to be satisfied with any deal.
"I still envisage him leaving us this summer, but if it doesn't happen then we would welcome him back for pre-season. We'll see what happens this week because obviously I would like to know as soon as possible if we are moving forward without him or not.
"One thing I can confirm is that he won't be coming back here on loan. That wouldn't be part of it because we want to bring in a replacement of our own and give our own players, such as Max Clayton, a chance."
Powell has represented England at Under-16, Under-17 and Under-18 level.
Robert Summerscales
