Liverpool look set for a double Spanish swoop before the new Premiership season gets underway on Saturday.
Having lost Danny Murphy to Charlton and Vladimir Smicer to injury, it is no secret that new Reds boss Rafael Benitez is on the lookout for new midfielders.
And reports from Spain indicate that his wishes have been granted with the signings of Luis Garcia and Xabi Alonso.
Liverpool are thought to have agreed a fee in the region of £6million for Barcelona winger Garcia, whose hopes of first-team action at the Nou Camp has taking a blow following some excessive summer spending.
Benitez is said to be a huge admirer of the 26-year-old and even tried to sign him during his time as Valencia boss.
It is thought that a loan deal was first proposed, but that Garcia could make a permanent switch to Anfield.
Another player heading to Merseyside is Real Sociedad's Alonso.
The La Liga outfit have already confirmed having talks with the English club, and Thursday reports indicate that a fee in the region of 16 million euros has been agreed.
Benitez sees the midfielder as the perfect foil for Steven Gerrard in the midfield and recently went to watch the player in action in a friendly against Everton.
Both deals could be completed before Liverpool kick off the Premiership season against Tottenham at White Hart Lane.
ITV Football
Liverpool, Thursday August 12 2004
