Bournemouth star Josh King has expressed his transfer frustration and admitted: "It's been the worst two months of my life".
The forward has been linked with a host of sides in recent weeks, including Everton.
Deals can still be done between Premier League clubs and teams in the Football League until the 5pm deadline later on.
But the ECHO understands a move for King from the Blues is not on the cards, with the focus on potential outgoings today.
West Ham and Torino are both believed to have had bids for King rejected by the recently-relegated Cherries.
And in quotes translated from an interview with Norwegian media outlet TV2, King said: "It hasn't been the easiest months for me mentally.
"There is a lot of writing, a lot of things. I don't want to comment too much now. But I hope to return, the transfer window is still open, so we'll see. I want to start playing again and get in good shape, that's the most important thing."
He added: "Honestly, I don't know what's going to happen. There's a lot that's happened.
"I could have written a book about what's happened the last two months and it had definitely become a bestseller.
"If I'm to be honest, it's been the two worst months of my life. But I can't give a reason.
"It's been tough, but I don't want anyone to feel sorry for me. This is what I signed when I started playing football, but I wish things were sorted out before it was actually sorted out."
Reflecting on the move he ideally wanted, the 28-year-old said: "If it had been up to me, I would have already signed for a club and started the season, played four games and been in top form.
"I think the club would rather me be there, but as I said, I felt like I had done my part and been loyal to the club for many years.
"If you'd asked me two months ago if I thought I'd be in Bournemouth after what I've been promised, I'd have answered 110 per cent no.
"But after everything that's happened in the last two months, with things that come eventually, I have to grit my teeth together, work hard and do what I can.
"It's a bit special to be a footballer who has nine months left on his contract. We'll see if I leave now in January or this summer."
It may still be a busy day for Everton ahead of the deadline this afternoon.
Several fringe players could be on the hunt for a switch on loan or on a permanent basis, including Muhamed Besic, Yannick Bolasie and a number of youngsters currently with the u23s.
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