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 Academyin 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.

Liverpool expect to discover the extent of Daniel Sturridge’s ankle injury today amid fears he will miss the start of next season.

The £12million striker suffered ankle ligament damage playing for England against the Republic of Ireland last week. Swelling around the joint has delayed an accurate assessment of the damage until now.