• Premier League

Fresh doubts raised over Mascherano

Harry Harris
August 23, 2010
Javier Mascherano was excellent against Arsenal © Getty Images
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Javier Mascherano appears to be closing in on a move away from Liverpool, with the midfielder not in the squad to face Manchester City amid claims Barcelona have tabled a £12 million bid for his services.

The player has previously said that he wants out of Anfield this summer, although Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson has remained confident of keeping his star midfielder. However, despite Inter Milan dropping their interest in the Argentine, Barcelona are reported to have made a bid for his services.

The Guardian claim that the bid is €15 million (£12.2 million) and includes former Arsenal midfielder Alexander Hleb and Uruguayan defender Martin Caceres as makeweights.

Liverpool are understood to have rejected the offer as they want €30 million (£24.4 million) up front with no player exchanges as part of the deal.

Mascherano was excellent in the opening draw against Arsenal, but missed the Europa League tie with Trabzonspor through injury - thus allowing him to play in European club competitions if he secures a move before the end of the transfer window next week.

Lucas, who took Mascherano's place against Trabzonspor, looks set to replace him in the starting line-up against City.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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