Ex-Liverpool star to quit Barca for China in January

Javier Mascherano will reportedly leave Barcelona next month, with a move to China set to be completed in the coming days.

The 33-year-old, who has made five starts in La Liga this term, wanted to quit the Nou Camp in the summer, but Sport reports that the Argentina star will get his wish during the winter transfer window.

Barca officials are said to have assured Mascherano that he will be granted a move, despite no deal yet being agreed with Chinese Super League side Hebei Fortune.

Sport claims Barca will receive €6million (£5.27m) for the former Liverpool star, who will sign a deal worth €7m (£6.15m) per year in China.

Barca have been linked with a January move for Palmeiras centre-back Yerry Mina to replace Mascherano, though the Colombian’s agent says no contact has been received the Catalan club.