Masch close to Liverpool deal

Liverpool's on loan midfielder Javier Mascherano has denied claims that his on-off transfer to the Reds is off again and claims he is very close to finally agreeing a permanent move to Anfield.

"We are really close," Mascherano told the club's official website.

"Maybe this week or next week we will be able to say everything's finished. We can't say it just yet but hopefully in a few days everything will be okay.

"There are no problems with the fee or with the contract, it's just getting the papers finished.

"I have always said I want to stay here and so it hasn't been a difficult time for me. I have wanted it to be finished because I have my family behind me and I want to know what my future is going to be. I am calm and relaxed because I know that everything is almost over.

"I am very happy that in the next week I will be able to say I have signed for Liverpool. It will be the best moment of my career to be able to say I will be playing my football with Liverpool."