Just as Liga BBVA champions Barcelona appeared to be on the brink of losing two experienced defenders in one summer transfer window, Javier Mascherano has gone and handed the Blaugrana huge hope of keeping the Argentine at Camp Nou for another season.
The make-shift Blaugrana center-back was rumored with a switch to Serie A holders Juventus earlier last month, as the 31-year-old was believed to be on his way to a three-year deal with the Bianconeri. However, Jefecito has now hinted at a Barca stay, insisting that he is valued and loved exactly where he is.
Speaking to Argentine newspaper Ole, Mascherano said (as per AS):
“Barça have let me know they have no intention of letting me leave. They are really happy with me. And when a club, even more so this club, put these conditions on you, it’s difficult to leave. Above all keeping in mind that I’m not going to force anything. No-one deserves that.”
The former Liverpool man, though, stopped short of committing his future to Luis Enrique’s side, adding: “There’s always the possibility to leave, but also to stay.”
Masherano has been a pivotal figure at Barcelona, albeit he continues to treat the fans to moments of madness. Regardless, he has helped the Catalan giants to unprecedented success since arriving in 2010, winning four Liga BBVA titles, 2 Champions League, and two Club World Cup trophies just to name a few.
Barcelona recently confirmed that they will bid farewell to Brazilian right-back Dani Alves, also on international duty with the Selecao at Copa America Centenario, as the 33-year-old appears all but certain to join The Old Lady.
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