Dan Gosling is free to leave Everton following an independent hearing.
Gosling agreed to extend his deal with the Goodison Park club last season but Everton never presented the verbal offer in writing.
And that means despite the midfielder being under 21, the Toffees will not be entitled to a fee, with Newcastle, Sunderland and West Ham all interested in Gosling.
A Premier League statement read: “Having looked into the matter, and considered the arguments of both Everton and the player, it was determined that the player is unattached and entitled to a free transfer.
“This is subject to a right of appeal by Everton which must be brought within 14 days of the decision.”