Steven Naismith will not be linking up again with his former Everton boss David Moyes after failing to agree personal terms on a move to Sunderland.
Black Cats boss Moyes is desperate to add to his squad before Wednesday night's transfer deadline. But after completing a £13.6million deal for Lorient midfielder Didier Ndong, the Wearsiders were unable to push through their move for Naismith.
Moyes took the Scottish forward to Everton from Rangers in 2012. He was a popular figure on Merseyside, overcoming a difficult start to win over supporters with his blend of tenacity and skill.