Ghana defender Hans Sarpei could quit German Bundesliga side Schalke over an extended period in the reserve team.
Schalke coach Felix Magath is contemplating offloading the World Cup star and two of his team-mates.
The statement by the coach in the German media has sparked fears that he could release the Ghanaian.
Magath, a known disciplinarian, banished Sarpei to the reserves as he was unimpressed with his performance for the team.
Following sub-par performances in the fall, Jones, Alexander Baumjohann and Hans Sarpei were all demoted to the reserves.
Having yet to return to Magath's side, could each be headed away from Gelsenkirchen.
Magath explained the situation of his squad, which is currently overstaffed in certain positions.
"It's definitely a situation where we can let some players go and I would go on to say that one or two others will be leaving as well," he said.
The situation could affect Sarpei but the Ghanaian defender will not be short of suitors as a utility player who players in all the positions in defence and midfield.
If he is released his first option will be to stay in the Bundesliga but he could attract interest from France too as well.