Everton manager Ronald Koeman says Phil Jagielka will not be leaving the club this summer.
The Toffees captain emerged as a target for Sunderland following the £12million arrival of Ashley Williams from Swansea City.
Black Cats boss David Moyes was hoping to lure Jagielka to the Stadium of Light but Koeman has ruled out any potential of a departure for the England international.
"We had to get a new defender and Ashley brings experience, leadership and he knows the Premier League," Koeman said.
"Phil Jagielka is the captain of the team.
"We don't have too many centre-backs. We need four so there is no way he can leave the club."