West Brom have lined up a deal to sign centre-back Ali Gabr on loan from Egyptian side Zamalek.
Alan Pardew has moved with Jonny Evans' future uncertain, although it is believed Gabr will join even if the Northern Ireland international stays.
Zamalek president Mortada Mansour has revealed West Brom will pay a £438,000 loan fee to cover the next six months with an option to buy the 29-year-old for £1.1million in the summer.
The agreement does not confirm Evans is leaving the Hawthorns but presents West Brom with a replacement in the event Manchester City or Arsenal meet the club's £25m asking price.