Javier Mascherano has said repeatedly that he is likely to leave FC Barcelona once his current deal ends in 2019. However, there is a big chance the Argentina international ends up leaving the squad sooner than expected.
According to several reports, the Chinese Super League has been knocking on Mascherano’s door in recent months. And Hebei China Fortune – team coached by former Real Madrid and Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini – is keen to make an effort to acquire the former Liverpool and River Plate star.
Mascherano has always said he has been “intrigued” with a move to Asia, but right now it might not be the best timing. With Samuel Umtiti sidelined until late January, it doesn’t seem as if Barca will sell their first-choice backup at centre-back during the January transfer window. But since the window in China shuts during February, there is a big change Mascherano ends up playing in the CSL in 2018.
Mascherano has been a stable presence for Barcelona since he joined the club back in 2010 from Liverpool. He has registered 331 presences for Los Blaugranas throughout his career, with one goal and eight assists thus far. He is one of the leaders of the squad and has been the captain several times as well.
