Everton have reportedly called off their pursuit of former Manchester United and Liverpool striker Michael Owen.

The ex-England international became a free agent at the end of the season after the former Premier League champions decided against renewing the 32-year-old's contract.

While Stoke City have been heavily linked with a move for the forward, Everton's reported interest has since cooled and they are not expected to approach the frontman, according to The Express.

Owen has maintained that he would be open to either staying in the Premier League or moving abroad.