The Independent reckon that Manchester City are ready to hijack the Mascherano-to -Liverpool deal and escort the Argentinian over to Eastlands. Journo Jason Burt writes:
“Manchester City are attempting to take advantage of the continuing uncertainty at Liverpool by lining up a surprise £17m bid for Javier Mascherano. City are expected to be the Premier League’s big spenders in what could be an otherwise quiet January with owner Thaksin Shinawatra having already pledged substantial funds as the club pushes for European football.”
With the whole Mascherano deal being a major sticking point between Rafa Benitez and his American paymasters (the Argie is still effectively only on loan at Liverpool), Sven has seen his chance to swoop in and nab him, as long as none of the glamorous continental clubs that have been keeping an eye on the situation come barging in.
Man City definitely have the dosh to back up this deal, and if Mascherano slips out of Rafa’s clutches will this flare up his differences with Gillett and Hicks?