One minute it looks like Chicago Fire trialist Collins John is heading back to Europe. But now it looks like there is some promise in securing the former Fulham forward.

Late Tuesday, the Washington Post reported that contract negotiations broke down and that John was headed back to Europe. But John was involved in the Fire's training on Wednesday, and reports are circulating that the key issue is solidifying a deal that is a multi-year option instead of a one-year guaranteed contract.

A source with the Fire said Wednesday that their "generous offer is in his hands. The Fire believe it's a very good one. We want him in 2010."

John was an immediate focal point from the first minute of the Fire's preseason, starting with a two-goal effort during Chicago's 4-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps on Feb. 15. He netted a goal during a 3-0 win against FC Dallas on Sunday.

If the key piece is solidifying a multi-year option over one year guaranteed, that is a much more promising holdup than if the Fire were flat-out low-balling John's value. Having played in the Premier League and transitioning to Major League Soccer, salary expectations probably have to be toned down a bit.

With his previous playing experience, size, quickness and other attacking intangibles, it would be a shame if we cannot see what John can do on the pitch for Chicago during regular-season play. John and the Fire have gone too many weeks through preseason to see this relationship evaporate into thin air.