Transfer Zone

Speculation Linking Liverpool's Javier Mascherano With Barcelona Intensifies

La Blaugrana are ready to take advantage of the Reds' financial woes by lodging a €22.8 million bid for the Argentina international midfielder...

Jun 6, 2009 9:26:17 AM

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Javier Mascherano - Liverpool

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Javier Mascherano

Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano is once more being linked with a switch to Primera Division giants and European champions Barcelona during the close-season.

A report emanating from the Spanish press on Friday claimed that la Blaugrana are contemplating offering cash plus France international left-back Eric Abidal in exchange for the 24-year-old.

However, British tabloid The Sun claims that Barca are readying a bid in the region of €22.8 million (£20m) for the 48-time capped Argentina international.

It was revealed earlier this week that the Merseyside club's holding company are facing huge debt problems after announcing a loss of around €48m (£42m).

It has been claimed that the Reds will need to sell in order to raise funds to strengthen the squad significantly as they prepare to mount yet another challenge for their first English championship since 1990.

Whether Mascherano would be allowed to leave is questionable, particularly as Xabi Alonso appears to be on the verge of departing.

Barcelona head coach Pep Guardiola is said to be keen to bolster his midfield as Yaya Toure and Seydou Keita could miss up to two months of action in 2009-10 due to the African Nations Cup.

Ricky Brooks, Goal.com