Bolton are hopeful of having Tuncay Sanli available for Sunday's visit of Manchester City after bringing the striker back to England.
The Turkey international, who has joined on a season-long loan from Wolfsburg, has been in Germany sorting out the paperwork on his work permit but it is expected to be processed in time.
Trotters boss Owen Coyle told the club's official website: "Everything is clear with the FA and we are just waiting for the work permit.
"It's frustrating but we have got to understand the legislation and how it works.
"He's been in Dusseldorf since Tuesday when he had his appointment.
"We have been told that it is normally a four or five day turnaround with the embassy so we will just have to bide our time.
"If he gets his work permit then he is fit and available to be a part of the squad. If not then unfortunately he will miss out and we will have to wait until next week."
Meanwhile, Coyle will know tomorrow if Ricardo Gardner can play after he undergoes a fitness test on a groin injury.