Everton failed with a January move for Espanyol defender Mario Hermoso, it has been revealed.

Sport says Everton tried to sign him during the January market.

However, the Barcelona-based side refused to negotiate. They are convinced that the player's value will increase even more in the coming months.

So, Espanyol told Everton a firm 'no'.

The English club were happy to spend eight million euros on the player but the La Liga side are waiting for his price to go above 15 million.

Hermoso's buyout clause is set at €40m.