Donald Tusk has dampened hopes of a Brexit breakthrough, saying no-deal was "more likely than ever".
The European Council president called on Theresa May to come up with "concrete proposals" to break the "impasse".
It comes after the Prime Minister pleaded with her cabinet colleagues to "stand together and stand firm" amid fears of a Tory revolt.
Speaking at a press conference in Brussels, Mr Tusk said: "As I see it, the only source of hope for a deal for now is the goodwill and determination on both sides.
"However, for a breakthrough to take place besides goodwill we need new facts.
"Tomorrow I am going to ask Prime Minister May whether she has concrete proposals on how to break the impasse."
Asked if the November summit would still go ahead, Mr Tusk said: "It's for the leaders to decide whether we need an extraordinary summit in November or not.
"Logistically, we are ready, but we need the feeling that we are close to a real breakthrough. The clock is ticking."
The news comes after Germany urged Mrs May to "take responsibility" for Brexit ahead of tomorrow’s crunch EU summit.
The Prime Minister is due to address leaders of the EU27 on Wednesday evening in Brussels, where she will also discuss the next steps for Brexit.
With no likelihood of a deal this week, they are expected to schedule a special Brexit summit for November.
It remains unclear whether this will be framed as a final opportunity to reach agreement or as a chance for the 27 to make preparations for a disorderly no-deal withdrawal.
Leo Varadkar, the Irish premier, suggested talks might drag on until December.
Yesterday Mrs May told MPs an exit agreement was still "achievable".
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