Everton have been frustrated in their efforts to lure Joao Pedro to Goodison Park as a big-money offer has been rejected by Watford, according to journalist Simon Phillips.

Frank Lampard, who was appointed as the Toffees' manager in January, could strengthen his squad ahead of tonight's 11pm transfer deadline.

GiveMeSport Transfer Update

What's the latest news involving Pedro?

According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Everton submitted a formal bid worth up to £30million earlier today.

However, the respected Italian journalist suggests Watford turned down the Toffees' proposal and have no intention of selling the 20-year-old, who has already scored two goals and registered as many assists in six appearances this season.

Everton have upped the ante in their pursuit after it emerged that they had revived their interest in Pedro earlier this week.

But Watford are in a strong negotiating position and not necessarily in a rush to sanction the striker's Vicarage Road exit as he still has five years remaining on his £30,000-per-week contract.

While that may be the case, Everton are keen to offer Pedro a quickfire return to the Premier League having suffered relegation with his current employers last season.

What has Simon Phillips said about Pedro?

Phillips understands that Everton saw an offer for Pedro pushed back by Watford earlier today, which will have come as a frustration to Lampard.

The journalist is aware that the Championship outfit are not interested in sanctioning the Brazilian's departure with just hours of the transfer window remaining.

As a result, he has doubts over whether the Merseyside outfit will succeed in getting their man as the deadline draws closer.

Phillips told GIVEMESPORT: "Everton have had an offer rejected for Joao Pedro this morning. Watford don't want to sell."

Has Pedro been getting interest from any other clubs?

Pedro appeared to be on his way to Newcastle United when, less than two weeks ago, Romano claimed a £30million deal had been struck.

However, that move failed to come to fruition and the former Fluminense star, who has scored 15 goals and grabbed a further seven assists since heading to English football, has remained with Watford.

Newcastle also failed with an initial £17.5million proposal as that was rejected by the Hornets earlier in the transfer window, so it is clear that Everton have not been Pedro's only admirers.

But it seems Lampard has his work cut out as he attempts to strike a deal with Watford having already spent more than £60million on reinforcements.