According to a reliable football journalist, Sheffield Wednesday are trying to sign a new centre half.

Football journalist Alan Nixon is reporting that Sheffield Wednesday are working on a deal to sign a foreign centre back before the transfer window slams shut.

With just over two weeks remaining for clubs to finalise deals and secure their signings, Sheffield Wednesday are in the market for another centre back.

The Owls lack strength in depth in that department beyond starting duo Glenn Loovens and Tom Lees.

Carlos Carvalhal has identified a new centre back as a critical, especially after Loovens was injured during last weekend's 1-1 draw with Queens Park Rangers.

Sam Hutchinson can fill in there but he normally operates in midfield and he was taken off during the first half of the same game.

Sheffield Wednesday were expected to complete the signing of former Arsenal defender Johan Djourou but that deal fell through after talks broke down.

As a result, Carvalhal has been scouring the market for another target.

According to Alan Nixon, there is a foreign centre back on Sheffield Wednesday's radar but it would be an "optimistic" move.

Nixon has not yet learned the name of the defender in question, though.

The Verdict

Sheffield Wednesday desperately need to bring in another centre back and preferably before they take on Sunderland on Wednesday.

However, an "optimistic" move for a foreign defender does not sound imminent.

Obviously Carlos Carvalhal will need to bring in the right profile of defender; someone who fits his style of play and is good enough to help the Owls compete for promotion.

But he is now running on a tight time schedule and he needs to rush through some transfers.

Sheff Wed fans - What do you make of this? Let us know below...