Manchester City manager Mark Hughes says he expects newly-signed striker Roque Santa Cruz to be out of action until the end of August.
The 27-year-old joined from Blackburn for a reported £18m with City aware that he needed knee surgery.
"We knew he'd have a period of rehab when we signed him, but we have good options up front," Hughes told the club's website.
"Rather than bring him back too soon I'd give him the time he needs."
City have also signed Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor as part of their summer transfer spree, and their spending could well continue as they make another bid for Everton defender Joleon Lescott.
But Everton manager David Moyes is unwavering in his insistence he will not be letting anyone leave Goodison Park.
"I've said all along that I have no intention of selling my best players," Moyes told Everton's website.
"Joleon is simply not for sale."
