Liverpool FC are closing in on the £7.7million signing of Celta  Vigo forward Iago Aspas with Sporting Lisbon's Tiago Ilori set to join him at Anfield.

The ECHO revealed last week that a fee had been agreed for Aspas with the Spanish outfit and discussions over personal terms have now reached a successful conclusion.

There are only a few minor details surrounding the transfer to be ironed out before the 25-year-old is given the go-ahead to fly to Merseyside to undergo a medical.

The Reds don't anticipate any issues and Aspas should be confirmed as Brendan Rodgers' second summer signing in the next 48 hours.

The 25-year-old scored 12 goals in 34 appearances last season and helped inspire Celta Vigo's bid for top flight survival.

Aspas, who is a product of Celta Vigo's Academy, is a versatile frontman who can lead  the line, play as a second striker or operate in a wide role.

Liverpool are also in negotiations with Sporting as they look to secure the services of young centre-back Ilori.

The ECHO understands the Reds have tabled a bid of around £3million for the 20-year-old  defender, who is currently on international duty with Portugal at the Toulon Tournament in France.

The Reds are increasingly confident they will complete the deal with cash-strapped Sporting willing to do business and Ilori having indicated his desire to join the club.

London-born Ilori joined Sporting's Academy in 2006 and established himself in their first team during the second half of last season.

That rise in the 6ft 3ins defender's profile has increased his price tag but Liverpool still believe it represents a sound investment.

Ilori is viewed as one for the future rather than a direct replacement for retiring vice-captain Jamie Carragher.

Source: Liverpool Echo