Nou Camp battler linked with surprise Anfield return.
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Liverpool are reportedly keeping a close eye on Barcelona midfielder Javier Mascherano as speculation is rife as to the Argentine’s future at the Nou Camp according to the Daily Express.
The 29 year old battler is apparently considering his future under new boss Gerardo Martino and comments made by the former Anfield favourite give the impression that Mascherano could be ready to leave the Catalan side;
You never know,”
“In football, you have to be prepared for anything. There were calls from somewhere else, but no offers.
“There are always doubts. You are at Barcelona and you have to fight for your place.
“The question is whether you now fight in the same circumstances, as I have have always had to win my starting place throughout my career. It’s as it should be.
“If Barca tell me they don’t need me, I will be off within a minute.”
Mascherano spent three and a half years on Merseyside and was something of a fan’s favourite but it would be a massive shock of Liverpool were to attempt to lure the tough tackling midfielder back to Anfield.
During his time at Barcelona Mascherano has at times been used out of position to help fill gaps in the starting eleven and has seen Sergio Busquets more often than not edging him out of the defensive midfield slot so talk of a possible move is not all that much of a shock, especially given Martino can also call upon Alex Song if needed.
Mascherano started 21 of Barcelona’s 38 La Liga fixtures last season and would surely have no shortage of suitors if he were to leave the club.
Brendan Rodgers has Lucas Leiva to call upon to fill Liverpool’s defensive midfield but clearly would be interested in welcoming back Mascherano to the club.