Glenjo-
I think this is less about the other person, and more about if you can trust yourself.
I have had relationships successfully transition to friendships but it took time and work.
With my ex that got me here it has not worked. When he asked me why I responded "Because it would hurt me too much."
I knew in that moment that I could not take care of myself well around him. Can you take care of yourself with this guy? Can you trust yourself to put your needs first, consistently with him....regardless of what he says and does when he is hurt?
I have learned that unless I can trust MYSELF to take care of me when I am with another person I can't be in that relationship.
For me this was not just about intimate relationships but I needed to change friendships and family relationships too (sometimes for short periods, sometimes for long periods).
So can you take care of you with this man?