Javier Mascherano agrees to sign for Barcelona – reports
It seems increasingly likely this morning that Liverpool’s Argentinian holding midfielder, Javier Mascherano, will leave Anfield before the transfer window shuts.
Reports suggest that the 26-year-old has agreed personal terms with Spanish giants Barcelona and will finalise a move within the new few days. However, the transfer fee could prove a stumbling block, with Barça offering in the region of £12 million, but Liverpool demanding closer to £21million.
Mascherano, who has struggled to adapt to living in England, is desperate to leave the Reds; although much depends on how much money the Catalans will stump up for his services.
Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson may also be about to lose tireless forward, Dirk Kuyt, to European champions, Inter Milan. The Premier League side are keen to listen to offers for the Netherlands international, although once again, the asking price could mean that Kuyt remains at Anfield this season.
If Kuyt does leave the club, though, one potential replacement could be Juventus striker David Trezeguet. At 32, the former France international is no spring chicken, but he is a proven goalscorer at every level.
Meanwhile, Liverpool’s rivals for a place in the top-four, Arsenal, could be about to bolster their squad in a bid to challenge for the Premier League title this season.
It’s believed that Arsène Wenger is considering a move for Netherlands international goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg, along with centre-back Jan Vertonghen from Ajax. However, both players could cost Wenger up to £22million. Instead, it seems rather more likely that the French manager will complete deals for Fulham’s Mark Schwarzer and Sevilla defender Sébastien Squillaci.
Another player set to arrive in London is Inter Milan striker Victor Obinna, who is wanted by West Ham. The 23-year-old Nigeria international is set to hold talks with the Hammers with a view to a permanent deal.
West Ham are also interested in Paris Saint-Germain playmaker Stephane Sessegnon. The 26-year-old won’t come cheap, though. It’s thought that Tottenham are also keeping a close eye on Sessegnon and could offer as much as £12.3million.
One player probably quite keen to escape the limelight in the capital is Tottenham striker Peter Crouch. Stoke City manager Tony Pulis is expected to make an offer for the England international – as if the Potters lacked a towering striker with aerial presence.
And finally, Jason Roberts’ days as a Premier League striker may soon come to an end. Blackburn Rovers want £1million for the out-of-favour forward, with both Leeds United and Nottingham Forest closely monitoring the situation.
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