Tim Cahill has turned down the offer of a new contract at Everton.
The Australian international was a sensation for The Toffees last season and was one of the main factors in them being able to clinch fourth place in The Premiership.
Despite only joining from Millwall last summer, Everton have moved to try and tie Cahill down to a longer-term deal.
However, the midfielder - who bagged 11 goals in his debut campaign - has shunned the offer from Goodison chiefs.
"I am very disappointed that we haven't been able to agree terms," said Cahill.
"I was very keen to commit my long-term future to the club, but it looks as though that won't be possible."
Everton chief executive Keith Wyness insists talks are continuing with the player and that there is no hurry as he is contracted to the club until 2008.
"We have been in discussions with Tim Cahill and he still has three years left to run on his current contract," he said.
"Talks will continue and we will continue to view all options open to us.
"Tim did exceptionally well for us last season. He does have three years left to run but we want him to stay with us for a long time."
by Graeme Bailey
The Australian international was a sensation for The Toffees last season and was one of the main factors in them being able to clinch fourth place in The Premiership.
Despite only joining from Millwall last summer, Everton have moved to try and tie Cahill down to a longer-term deal.
However, the midfielder - who bagged 11 goals in his debut campaign - has shunned the offer from Goodison chiefs.
"I am very disappointed that we haven't been able to agree terms," said Cahill.
"I was very keen to commit my long-term future to the club, but it looks as though that won't be possible."
Everton chief executive Keith Wyness insists talks are continuing with the player and that there is no hurry as he is contracted to the club until 2008.
"We have been in discussions with Tim Cahill and he still has three years left to run on his current contract," he said.
"Talks will continue and we will continue to view all options open to us.
"Tim did exceptionally well for us last season. He does have three years left to run but we want him to stay with us for a long time."
by Graeme Bailey
