Journalist Dean Jones has revealed Everton failed with a deadline-day move for Ismaila Sarr as they were not able to offer enough of a loan fee.

What's the word?

With the transfer window now officially closed, a large section of the club's loyal fanbase will be widely disappointed to know that their team failed to complete any last-minute moves.

That's not for the want of trying though. Indeed, following the sale of Anthony Gordon to Newcastle United, the Toffees seemed desperate to bring anyone in.

For instance, they made a late bid for Watford winger Sarr hoping to pay £2m in an initial loan fee with an obligation to buy for £30m if they avoid relegation (as well as a £4m appearance bonus).

This was rejected, however, and while talking on Ranks FC prior to the deadline, Jones explained why Everton couldn't get this deal or any others across the line.

He said: "This is the problem, right? So I was speaking to someone actually while I was away about Everton and they've been trying to do loan deals, but even with loan deals, they can't put up enough loan fee at the moment to get these players.

"So with Sarr they've put up an initial loan and then £30m in the summer. Not good enough, not good enough.”

Troubling times

New manager Sean Dyche will no doubt be disheartened by the fact that his side have only grown weaker in the short time since he has been involved with the club – as Gordon leaves without being replaced. Consequently, his task to keep Everton in the Premier League will now be even more difficult.

Sarr may have been a fine replacement for the departing 21-year-old too. After all, the Senegal international has good experience in England having played 116 times for Watford scoring 31 goals and providing 22 assists in this period.

The Toffees were also said to be potentially considering other loan approaches – such as a potential push for Anthony Elanga – but this deal also failed to go anywhere.

All in all, January was a fairly disastrous month for the club. It's little wonder angry fans gathered outside the club’s training ground in protest at the board’s ongoing mismanagement.