London - Liverpool acted quickly in the transfer market on Wednesday as they agreed a fee to sign midfielder Alberto Aquilani from Italy's Roma.

Less than 24 hours after agreeing to sell Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid for a fee believed to be in the region of 30 million pounds (51 million dollars), Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez snapped up Aquilani.

The deal, thought to be worth around 20 million pounds, will bring the 25-year-old Aquilani to Anfield in time for the start of the new season, subject to a medical.

"Alberto is a very good player and I'm delighted we've reached agreement with Roma for his transfer," Benitez said.

"He will travel to Merseyside later this week for a medical. Alberto has a winning mentality and great experience in both Serie A and the Champions League.

"He has long been recognised as a top class talent in Italy, captaining his country at both Under 19 and Under 21 levels before establishing himself in the senior national side."

The 27-year-old Alonso had been an integral part of the Liverpool side since joining in August 2004 from Real Sociedad.

He helped them to win the Champions League in 2005 and was instrumental in their push last season to second place in the league.(dpa)