Dwight McNeil’s partner has claimed Crystal Palace provided no explanation for pulling out of a move to sign him from Everton on transfer deadline day and accused them of toying with the winger’s mental health.

McNeil stayed at Everton after Palace decided not to proceed with a £20m deal at the last minute despite the 26-year-old having completed his medical and agreed terms on a four-and-a-half-year contract. It is understood the collapse of Jean-Philippe Mateta’s £30m move to Milan, after the France striker failed a medical, prompted Palace to change their offer to an initial loan with an obligation to buy at the end of the season.

A deal sheet was submitted to the Premier League that gave Palace two extra hours to complete the paperwork. But Palace are understood to have had a change of heart, although it appears neither Everton nor McNeil were informed. Palace have been contacted for comment.

Their behaviour is believed to have left Everton mystified, and McNeil’s partner, Megan Sharpley, said in an emotional post on Instagram that they had got “radio silence” from the London club.

“Tonight, and the last 48 hours, have...