Finnan is said to have already passed a medical at Anfield, while 23-year-old Malbranque spoke of his interest in a move to Liverpool only last week: "I'm flattered that a club like Liverpool might be interested. I most certainly have the possibility to leave at the end of the season."
It is expected that Houllier may sign the two players for a combined fee of around £10m. The Reds, of course, would have to spend out more then that just to secure the services of Blackburn winger Damien Duff. Houllier, it seems, will see a greater value in securing two players with what could be limited transfer funds this summer.