St Johnstone are working to tie up a loan deal for former Dundee United defender Kerr Smith after losing Luke Robinson.
Left-back Robinson has been recalled by Wigan midway through his season-long loan.
But Smith is set to go straight into the squad for Tuesday’s cinch Premiership encounter at Dundee if his temporary move from Aston Villa is processed in time.
The 19-year-old made 12 first-team appearances for United, making his debut at Ibrox at the age of 16, before joining Villa in the summer of 2022.
Saints assistant manager Andy Kirk said: “We are just waiting on some clearance for that to go through so we are hopeful that will be there for Tuesday. It’s in the hands of the SFA.
“He is in really good condition to be available to start the game if that’s an option for the manager.
“There are a few other things going on but nothing concrete and we just need to wait until those develop.”
Robinson started every game for Saints since making his debut at Celtic Park in August and could yet return if Wigan’s injury list subsides.
“There was a recall option and it’s happened, it’s something we have to deal with,” Kirk said.
“He has performed well and Wigan are bringing him back and I think they are a little bit short at the minute as well.
“Luke has got to go down and try to impress his parent club. He goes with our best wishes but Luke’s definitely a player we would like to have at the club and if there’s an opportunity for that to happen in the future then we would definitely look at. He’s a fantastic lad.”
The Perth side have taken one point from three away games in a row ahead of their trip up the Tay.
Kirk said: “The derby always adds an extra bit of spice to it. Dundee are sitting in a position in the league (seventh) through merit. They are a good side, they have some good individual players and they are well organised, and we know it’s going to be a very tough game.
“This is our fourth away game on the bounce so hopefully this one we can get some points from.”
