Andre Ayew, a Ghanaian striker, chose Nottingham Forest over Everton.
Ayew is eager to rejoin with Forest boss Steve Cooper, whom he previously worked with at Championship team Swansea.
Once leaving Qatari club Al Sadd, the 33-year-old became a free agent, making him accessible after the January transfer window closed.
Everton reportedly wanted to sign him to bolster their attacking options after becoming the only Premier League team without an acquisition during the winter transfer window.
With only three victories, Everton has the fewest of any team and is currently fighting for survival. They are ranked 19th in the table.
After a dismal start to the season, Frank Lampard was relieved of his duties earlier in January, and veteran Burnley manager Sean Dyche was named as his replacement.
In an effort to turn around the club's declining trend, Dyche has also been linked with a free agent acquisition of five-time Champions League champion Isco.