MELBOURNE Victory will join Western Sydney in signing a sixth international when the A-League transfer window opens on January 14.

Bit it's unlikely to be a familiar name, with last season's marquee Harry Kewell not even discussed as a potential candidate.

Coach Ange Postecoglou scouring his inbox in search of an x-factor player, seeking a straight swap for injured Brazilian Gui Finkler - hence a crafty attacking midfielder in the mould of Marcos Flores

While A-League clubs are only allowed five foreigners within the salary cap, Victory plans to sign the foreigner as an injury replacement or on a guest contract before switching to a permanent deal next season.

At least one foreign spot is likely to be freed up by next season with Ivory Coast-born left back Adama Traore set to gain Australian citizenship.

But Marco Rojas' future is no clearer, with the Kiwi attracting interest from Europe although no confirmed offer has hit the table.

Fellow young gun Tom Rogic has rejected a move to relegation-threatened Premier League side Reading, opting to remain with the Mariners.

Like Rojas, Rogic's contract expires at the end of the season with both clubs in discussions to extend the deal.

Postecoglou said Victory had two spots left but was likely to make just one January signing.

"There is unlikely to be a signing this week, it will be a week where we have a good look at what's available.

"Names have been put in front of us and we're trying to whittle those names down and see whether they fit the criteria.

"The key things are the position - we want someone who can play the attacking midfield role, and conditioning - we don't want to bring someone in who's not up and ready to go straight away.

"We've only got two spots left, we could sign more than one but it will depend on the Finkler replacement, that's the main one to focus on.

"If his replacement doesn't take up all the salary cap room we may be able to bring someone else in. But it will probably be just the one signing."

Originally published as Victory look for foreign boost