Everton are pushing to make a decision on the club's new manager by Friday - as Frank Lampard is due to hold further talks.
And the Blues are hoping to arm the new boss with a midfield addition before Monday night's transfer deadline.
Everton have been dealt a blow with Abdoulaye Doucoure facing at least four weeks on the sidelines with a groin problem and so club chiefs know midfield reinforcements are essential.
Lampard has moved into a strong position in the race to replace the sacked Rafa Benitez and had been expected to speak with the club's hierarchy on Thursday.
Portuguese coach Vitor Pereira remains in the running but is no longer considered the clear favourite, as he was earlier in the week, with Lampard, for the former Chelsea and Derby County boss, holding growing support at the top of the club.
Everton hope to conclude the recruitment process Friday and then make a decision on who will replace Benitez, with Lampard now seen as leading the race.
Wayne Rooney was under consideration but after discussions via the 36-year-old's intermediary it became clear Everton were unsure about handing him the reins mid-way through the season and had discussed the possibility of revisiting talks in the summer.
Lampard has now emerged as a strong contender with the Blues closing in on a decision.
