Everton have been left hugely frustrated by a hamstring injury this week as Jarrad Branthwaite underwent a surgical procedure after suffering a major fitness setback. But one elsewhere might impact on the chances of bringing in a potential bargain buy.

Branthwaite hasn’t kicked a ball in a competitive match so far this season after penning a new five-year deal with the Blues on July 2. After undergoing his operation on Tuesday, the England international will commence a structured rehabilitation programme under the supervision of the club’s medical team.

Sport Witness cite SportBild as reporting that Mainz wanted to extend Anthony Caci’s contract over the summer around the time of interest from Everton and Fulham but the player refused all approaches from his current club and made it clear he didn’t want to pen fresh terms with the opportunity to take advantage of free agent status appealing for him.