Walsall centre-back Anthony Gerrard has joined Cardiff City with Motherwell defender Paul Quinn expected to follow.
Former Everton trainee Gerrard, the 22-year-old cousin of England midfielder Steven Gerrard, signed on Thursday.
The sum is undisclosed, though earlier on Thursday Walsall refused a £200,000 bid from Scunthorpe as insufficient.
Quinn, 23, is expected in Cardiff to discuss terms this week after Scottish Premier side Motherwell accepted a fee in the region of £300,000.
The economic downturn and the loss of television broadcasting funds following the collapse of Setanta has led Motherwell to consider selling their top players.
606: DEBATECardiff's transfer activity follows the recruitment of Charlton centre-back Mark Hudson in a deal believed to be worth over £1m.
Defensive back-up was needed after Darren Purse left for Sheffield Wednesday and Roger Johnson joined Birmingham in a £5m deal.
Gerrard scored seven goals in 157 Saddlers appearances and was twice voted their player of the season.
"I'm really excited about joining Cardiff," Gerrard told the Bluebirds website.
"As soon as I heard that Cardiff were interested in me I never gave it a second thought.
"I came down and had a look around and all the facilities here really are top notch, everything is there for us to get into the Premier League and I am really looking forward to being a part of it.
"I like to think I'm a player that gives 100%, whole hearted and never gives up.
"I don't suppose it's my place to say it but I like to think I can play and am looking forward to getting started.
"The fans are known to be very passionate and will get behind the team, which is important.
"I also know the 'Ayatollah' and will make sure when I'm asked to do it I get it right first time.
"It's a great move for me and as I said I can't wait to get started."
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