Who cares what they're calling it, it doesn't disguise the fact that they're spunking a lot of money on some very average players.
This, apparently, leaves the door open for Everton to swoop, like some left-back baiting bird of prey, for the England under-21 international.
So it's now just a matter of how much the Blues are willing to offer a player who, in truth, we could really do with.
Baines looked like an excellent prospect at Wigan last season and Latics boss, Chris Hitchings, has been full of praise for the player.
Hutchings said: "Leighton is a first-class pro and a first-class person and despite all the speculation and rumour surrounding his future, he has remained professional throughout and as ever is a joy to work with"
And the left back position is one that has troubled Everton for a number of seasons now...probably since Andy Hinchliffe took his deadly left peg to Hillsborough in 1998.
But I wouldn't hold your breath over this one as it took Sunderland about four attempts before they actually realised that Wigan seriously wanted £6 million for Baines.
So expect the Blues to lodge a £4.5 million bid and not offer a penny more!