Newcastle Jets' efforts to sign star striker Roy O'Donovan have failed with the club announcing his departure on Monday.
The 33-year-old Irish striker had been close to agreeing to terms for a third season in the Hunter Valley, but talks broke down recently beyond repair.
Jets CEO Lawrie McKinna explained his disappointment at losing the centre-forward, revealing the club believed a deal was imminent on a few occasions.
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"We made a number of generous offers to Roy and his management," McKinna said.
"Talks began [about re-signing] midway through the season, with serious discussions beginning about two months ago.