Everton explored a move to sign VfB Stuttgart forward Ermedin Demirovic during the summer transfer window, according to reports from TEAMtalk.
The 28-year-old has been one of the Bundesliga’s standout performers since joining Stuttgart from FC Augsburg a couple of years ago.
In his debut campaign at MHP Arena, Demirovic contributed to 21 goals across all competitions, immediately establishing himself as a key figure at the club.
Last season he scored 15 goals and registered four assists, helping Stuttgart finish fourth in the Bundesliga and qualify for the Champions League.
Demirovic has continued his fine form into the current campaign, scoring four goals in as many appearances across all competitions.
He announced himself on the European stage in emphatic fashion, netting a hat-trick as Stuttgart beat Viking 3-1 in their opening Champions League group fixture.
His consistent performances have also earned him a regular place in the Bosnia and Herzegovina international squad, further raising his profile across the continent.
Everton were not alone in their admiration for Demirovic, with Premier League rivals Aston Villa and Brighton also registering their interest during the summer window.
Galatasaray went as far as submitting a formal offer of €20m for the striker, yet even that failed to convince Stuttgart to part ways with one of their most important players.
Demirovic himself made it clear he had no desire to leave Stuttgart, where he is regarded as one of head coach Sebastian Hoeness’ key players, effectively ending any chance of a transfer.
The failed pursuit of the Bosnian international is now considered a real sore point for Everton manager David Moyes, who reportedly wanted Demirovic as one of four strikers during the window.
Everton spent the closing stages of the summer window desperately trying to add attacking reinforcements, but ultimately left without securing the forward depth Moyes was seeking.
With Stuttgart unwilling to sell and Demirovic committed to remaining in Germany, there was arguably little the Toffees could have done to get a deal over the line regardless of their efforts.