Everton have taken former Germany international Thomas Hitzlsperger on trial as David Moyes goes in search of more options in the centre of the park.
The Toffees sold midfield pair Jack Rodwell and Tim Cahill in the summer, while Ross Barkley left on loan to Sheffield Wednesday earlier this week.
Darren Gibson is also currently absent with a ruptured thigh muscle that is expected to keep him out for the next three weeks.
Moyes told the Daily Mail: "I'm a bit worried that we do need cover. I've got to look at players who are out of contract to give us some cover over the next few months."
Hitzlsperger, who has spent time in the Premier League with both Aston Villa and West Ham United, is available on a free transfer after leaving Wolfsburg.
Moyes is interested in signing the 30-year-old and has invited him to train with Everton with a view to a Goodison Park contract.
