Barcelona defensive ace Javier Mascherano has reportedly agreed to a three-year deal to join Juventus this summer.
The Argentine international has been at the Nou Camp since 2010, making almost 200 La Liga appearances for the club and establishing himself as a key part of Luis Enrique’s side again this year.
However, according to Sport, he will now join Juventus this summer having agreed on a long-term deal that will see him earn significantly more than he currently does with his contract with Barca.
The veteran defensive midfielder and centre-half is understood to have acknowledged that he will have one more major contract in his career at the age of 31, and is seemingly ready to move to Italy despite still being an important part of Enrique’s plans moving forward.
Nevertheless, the report adds that the Blaugrana have no intention of selling and so it remains to be seen whether or not a deal can be reached between the two clubs before the go-ahead is given for the former Liverpool star to move to Serie A.
While it would be a significant loss for Barcelona if he were to leave, it would conversely be a major boost for Juve who will benefit from his experience, quality and all-round influence.
The Bianconeri secured a fifth consecutive Serie A title this season, and followed it up with consecutive domestic doubles after winning the Coppa Italia last weekend.
However, while they wish to continue their dominance in Italy, they have ambitions of ending their wait for another Champions League triumph, and in that regard, adding Mascherano to the squad would certainly be a step in the right direction to achieving that dream.