Caci summer free transfer may be RIGHT one

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.

- By CHRIS BEESLEY ECHO Reporter

Anthony Caci in action last month

(PAU BARRENA)

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.

However, with the 28-year-old having picked up a hamstring injury and expected to be out of action until the end of the calendar year, the piece claims Mainz could take advantage of the player's difficult situation and try again for a renewal.

The article adds that it would be a gamble on behalf of both parties as Caci was clearly tempted by the prospect of the Premier League, although fitness issues could reduce his chances of Everton or another interested party trying to obtain him on a Bosman-style free transfer next summer.

The Blues remain in the hunt for right-back options having ironically tried to sign Fulham's Kenny Tete in the same transfer window when he was poised to become available on a free, only for the Dutch international to perform a U-turn when he was offered improved terms and stay at Craven Cottage.