Everton reject late bid from Norwich for striker Steven Naismith

Sky Sports are reporting that Norwich may yet come in with a late bid for Steven Naismith after having an initial bid for the forward rejected.

The Liverpool Echo claimed earlier on deadline day that the Canaries had enquired about the Scotland international but were told he wasn't for sale.

However, a Sky Sports News reporter a Carrow Road claimed that Norwich actually made a bid in the region of £8m for Naismith, who arrived on a free transfer from Rangers in the summer of 2012.

Naismith has fallen down the pecking order at Goodison Park thanks to the return to fitness of Arouna Kone. However, the Echo claims he remains happy at the club and is settled on Merseyside.

Should Norwich return with a higher bid it may be too good for Everton to turn down. The issue with selling a striker this late though is the fact Roberto Martinez would have precious little time to bring in a replacement.

Everton already look short of strikers so selling Naismith would a replacement lined-up would be as huge risk, no matter how big the bid. Meaning the 28-year-old, who trained with the Scotland squad today ahead of next weekend's European Qualifiers, is likely to stay a Toffee.