Aston Villa manager David O'Leary is to be given the green light by chairman Doug Ellis to bolster his squad in the January transfer window.
O'Leary had made it clear that he wants to bring in new blood to strengthen one of the smallest squads in the Premiership and has already warned of "a tough season ahead".
His dilemma was highlighted on Saturday when he was forced to play veteran striker Dion Dublin at centre-back after the departure of Alpay and an injury to Ronny Johnsen.
O'Leary was initially told that the £4 million he spent on Gavin McCann and Thomas Sorensen in the summer was his entire transfer budget for 2003-2004.
But Ellis recognises that Villa need to add to the squad and had a lengthy chat with O'Leary after Saturday's goalless draw with Everton.
Ellis said: "We've had a chat. We know, I know that we've got to do something in January but it's got nothing to do with the £400,000 saving on Alpay's money.
"It's up to David whether we go into the market. He's got to tell me who he wants. We've already discussed the pros and cons. We discussed another player on Saturday evening after the Everton game although he'll remain nameless. We know what we're doing."
O'Leary has revealed his admiration for Chelsea striker Mikael Forssell who is on loan at Birmingham although the player has again stressed his commitment to Steve Bruce's side.
The Villa chief has also been linked with a move for Leicester midfielder Muzzy Izzet who was also a target for one of his predecessors, John Gregory.
PA