Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes hopes he can conclude his deal to sign Greg Leigh on a permanent deal this month.
The NAC Breda left-back is on loan until the end of the season from the Dutch club but is not expected to feature again until March after breaking his tibia last month.
McInnes is still trying to add to his squad as the Dons prepare to head off to Dubai for their winter training camp but securing Leigh’s services on a permanent deal remains a priority.
He said: “I will sit down with Greg over the coming weeks and if it is something he is keen to do then we will try and get that resolved.”
The Reds fly out to the Middle East tomorrow and the Aberdeen manager would like to have a new face on board by the time the squad touches down in Dubai. However, it seems more likely any arrivals will happen while Aberdeen are at their training camp or upon their return.
He said: “Ideally, I would like to do that but that is easier said than done. If we are busy with our work then there could be an opportunity to take one or two away with us.
“Whether we can or not, it is difficult to bring players in during any window, especially the January window.
“We will do our best. You ask any manager when the window opens you are always hoping you can get business done.”
The Dons boss is keen to add to his squad as quickly as possible so he can integrate new players into the squad before the Scottish Cup fourth round tie against Dumbarton at Pittodrie on January 18.
McInnes believes the Dubai training camp offers the ideal opportunity for his squad to regroup for the second half of the campaign.
He said: “Dubai is important for everybody as it has given us the chance to reset and let’s any new signing to settle in.
“What is important is we have the mindset of what’s happened has happened and we get ready for the 17 league games and to try to win the Scottish Cup.
“We re-focus and get the freshness having had a little break before a training camp designed to help us end the season as strong as possible.”