The Rams, who have lost eight of their last 10 matches in all competitions, will be without Dean Leacock and Dean Moxey through suspension for their next game at home to Ipswich on February 1.
Ayala resumed training last week after a hamstring problem and he is expected to play for the Reds' reserves on Wednesday.
"We have spoken to Liverpool about Daniel and to the player and his agent. It is just a case of him getting this game under his belt on Wednesday," Clough told the Derby Telegraph.
"Dean Leacock is now out for two games through suspension and so we need somebody to come in. Jake Buxton will be available at that point, we hope, and hopefully Ayala will come in and do a job for us."
Ayala, 20, was on loan at Hull and scored against Derby in a 2-0 victory at the KC Stadium in September. The Spaniard made a dozen appearances for the Tigers before his loan was cut short by injury.
Source: PA
