Cox has joined on a free transfer

Cox, 33, has completed a free transfer switch to the Bluebirds after passing a medical at Ninian Park.

Dutch Under-21 international Loovens, 21, has agreed a season-long loan which he says "excites" him.

The deals should end the Bluebirds' interest in Bristol City's Danny Coles, although a new midfielder and striker are expected at Ninian Park shortly.

Defence was the most crucial area for recruits, though, with Cardiff having lost centre-backs Danny Gabbidon, James Collins, Tony Vidmar and Robert Page in recent months.

Cox, who has negotiated a release from the final year of his contract, is known as a centre-half, although he can also fill in at full-back.

I would love to share in the sporting evolution at Cardiff Glenn Loovens

He played for home-town Scunthorpe, Aston Villa, Middlesborough and Bolton before joining Watford.

Loovens is on the recovery trail after a long injury, and told the Feyenoord website that a loan move to Cardiff was ideal.

"I wanted to stay at Feyenoord, but the competition for places is so high that it would have been difficult," said the young Dutchman.

"I am excited about playing for Cardiff, they are building a new stadium and I've seen the potential to take a step forward.

"I would love to share in their sporting evolution and the city appealed to me."