Javier Mascherano nears Barcelona deal

Barcelona sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta has revealed that Argentine international Javier Mascherano is close to signing a new contract with the club.

The 28-year-old, who has excelled for the Spanish club after switching from midfield to defence, is expected to extend his deal in the coming week.

"Negotiations over Mascherano's renewal are at a very advanced stage," Zubizarreta told reporters.

Mascherano joined Barcelona from Liverpool in 2010.