Monday, June 21, 2010

Liverpool's Javier Mascherano Will Snub Inter For Barcelona

Inter target Javier Mascherano wants to join Barcelona and not the Italian and European champions, according to El Mundo Deportivo.

While reports in Italy have spoken of a strong interest from Inter in the Liverpool man, conflicting voices in Spain claim Mascherano has put his interests in Barcelona.

On Friday the Argentinean midfielder told the press to "ask Rafael Benitez" in relation to the Inter move.

But the report from Spain claims he has told his close friends, including Lionel Messi that he wants to join the Camp Nou side.

Yaya Toure's possible move to Manchester City has left coach Pep Guardiola searching for a replacement for his midfield.

He tried to land Mascherano last year by offering the Reds €20m [£18m], but the then-coach Benitez rejected the proposal.

Nevertheless, Barca are trying to re-work a move because they feel Mascherano has the ideal qualities for the team.

However, the deal hinges on how much Liverpool want for him. Barcelona have already spent big this summer after landing David Villa from Valencia for €40m [£36m].

The expenditure of equity could impede progress for Mascherano.

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