Oldham Athletic's deal to sign convicted rapist Ched Evans is off?

Oldham Athletic's deal to sign convicted rapist Ched Evans has reportedly been called off.

The League One side's owner Simon Corney claimed yesterday that there was an "80% chance" of signing the 26-year-old, who was released from prison in October.

Evans, who served half of a five-year sentence for raping a 19-year-old woman in a hotel, has been searching for a new club after Sheffield United decided against re-signing the Welshman.

Oldham were reportedly willing to add Evans to their ranks after the two parties agreed personal terms, but a number of their sponsors, including Nando's, have threatened to end their association with the club if the controversial move goes ahead.

Despite Oldham being close to sealing Evans's signature, Sky Sports News is reporting that the deal has been called off.

The player's conviction prevents him from playing overseas.