THE race was on today to get former Derby midfielder Thordar Gudjonsson ahead of tomorrow's trip to Walsall.

With Lee Cartwright and Mark Rankine ruled out and hopes of Sean Gregan returning from injury in time for the away match, manager David Moyes has been forced into the transfer market.

Moyes apparently moved for the 28-year-old Iceland international, who made 10 Premiership appearances for The Rams last season.

Gudjonsson currently plays with Spanish side Las Palmas and is the son of Stoke boss Gudjon Thordarson.

The loan deal would be one of Moyes' famous 'try before you buy' moves which has led to other stars such as Steve Basham joining the club.

However, the deal is far from complete, according to Moyes, who, as usual, is playing his cards close to his chest.

He said: "There has been a hitch with the deal due to the Spanish transfer window.

"This means that, unfortunately, the transfer could be in doubt."

The Icelandic star, who grew up in the same village as Bjarki Gunnlaugsson, has played for his country some 40 times and has played in Germany and Belgium.

He cost Las Palmas £1.5 million Genk and was on loan last season at Derby.

The transfer activity is in response to an injury crisis building at Deepdale.

Mark Rankine could be out until April, and hopes that Gregan would return to action this weekend seem to have been dashed.

That could pave the way for some of North End's fringe players to have a place in the starting eleven.

The likes of Michael Keane and Iain Anderson are chomping at the bit for a chance to get a regular place. Both have helped North End collect valuable points when covering for others.

Rankine was injured a week ago in a training session at Blackburn's indoor arena when he kicked the sole of a colleague's boot.

Cartwright is being rested to help cure a painful case of shin splints. And while Gregan is struggling with a jarred knee.

Away from midfield, Richard Cresswell is doubtful after having suffered more trouble with his hamstring, and reliable central defender Michael Jackson is also doubtful.