Middlesbrough are hoping to seal the signing of Egyptian international midfielder Mohamed Shawky before the transfer window closes.
Shawky has been on trial at the club's Rockliffe Park training ground along with Al-Ahly team-mate Emad Moteab.
Southgate has decided against signing the latter but has been impressed enough by Shawky to try to agree a deal.
Southgate said: "We have been watching both players closely and feel that Mohammed would be a good addition.
"So he's one we might add to the squad. We're still in talks with him and his club finalising the deal.
"We're not there yet but we hope to have it tied up in the next couple of days."
Boro are expected to pay around £250,000 for the 25-year-old midfielder.
