Ariza Makukula has played in the top flight in Portugal, Spain and France

West Brom manager Tony Mowbray has admitted defeat in his attempts to sign Benfica striker Ariza Makukula on loan.

The 27-year-old Portugal international arrived at the club on Tuesday for a medical and to discuss personal terms.

However, Mowbray said: "I am pretty sure any deal for Makukula isn't going to happen and I think it is best we leave it at that."

On Wednesday Mowbray admitted that any prospective deal for the DR Congo-born player was still some way off.

"He hasn't played for a long time and there is also the financial side," said Mowbray.

Makukula has been more forthcoming with details regarding the reasons for the collapse of the move.

He told Maisfutebol website: "There was an agreement between West Brom and Benfica but I went to the club and I didn't like their offer.

"I wanted to have a look at my contract. The coach was friendly, the club is well-organised, but I don't think it's a good fit for me.

"I respect the club but I didn't want to be part of their project."

606: DEBATE I felt that this guy would add a different dimension up front to what we already have. si_wba

Makukula said he still intends to leave Benfica, where he has failed to secure a regular place since Spanish coach Quique Flores took over this season, and is considering other offers.

Equally West Brom will be looking to explore other options to boost their strike-force.

The Baggies are bottom of the Premier League and in dire need of a reliable striker, having netted only 17 goals in 21 top-flight games this term, especially with frontman Ishmael Miller is out for the season because of a knee ligament injury.

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