Aston Villa are seeking loan cover for injured defender Diego Carlos.
The £26million defender is expected to be sidelined for up to nine months after undergoing surgery on a ruptured Achilles sustained in Saturday's 2-1 win over Everton.
His loss for what could effectively be the entire season is a serious blow to Steven Gerrard and will alter Villa's approach to the remainder of the transfer window.
The Express & Star says Villa are now considering a defensive loan signing to cover Carlos' absence.
Gerrard still has Tyrone Mings, Ezri Konsa and Calum Chambers to call on at centre half, while midfield signing Boubacar Kamara can deputise in the position if required.