Everton have been unable to agree a fee with Wigan Athletic for the signing of James Carragher.
Negotiations have hit a stalemate and the Blues are now looking at trying to sign Dutch defender Luuk Kluiters for their under-23 squad.
Kluiters has been on trial at Finch Farm recently and Everton are attempting to obtain a work permit for the 18-year-old from AZ Alkmaar.
But hopes of signing Carragher - who played for Wigan's first-team in their pre-season friendly with Oldham Athletic on Saturday - have faded with rounds of talks between Everton and the Latics concluding without a deal being agreed.
The Blues are now working on the paperwork to bring Kluiters to the club after his trial but there remains some uncertainty if the player will meet the required criteria after changes to the rules following Brexit.
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