Sacked Watford boss Marco Silva wanted to take Andre Carrillo to Everton earlier this season.
The Times says following Everton's approach for Silva in November, Watford's players had "sensed his lack of commitment" with some "even seeking to follow him to Goodison Park."
Named is Andre Carrillo, the Peruvian winger on loan at Watford from Benfica. Carrillo had previously played for Silva at Sporting CP, and it's claimed the pair had discussed the idea of the 26-year-old moving to Merseyside.
In their statement confirming Silva's dismissal, Watford intimated Everton's interest in the manager was a key reason for the decision.