Thursday, September 2, 2010

Masch clinches Barca move

Masch clinches Barca move

Midfielder Javier Mascherano has wrapped up his switch to Barcelona from Liverpool after passing a medical.

The Reds reluctantly accepted an Ј18million bid from the Catalan giants for Mascherano last week following months of speculation over his future.

The 26-year-old's desire to depart Anfield became increasingly apparent over the summer, and his wish was granted when his potential switch to the Spanish club was confirmed.

Mascherano, who arrived on Merseyside from West Ham three years ago, underwent separate tests at the Hospital de Barcelona and at Camp Nou earlier on Monday, earning the thumbs up from the club's medical team on the eve of the transfer deadline.

"It was an exhaustive medical that lasted around five hours. He is in excellent condition and is physically great," club doctor Ricard Pruna told Barca TV .

"His cardiovascular level is perfect and he is a player who has had very few injuries. In the last five years he has suffered one injury that has left him with problems."

The holding midfield ace is now set to be officially unveiled later this week after putting pen to paper on a four-year deal.

He will replace Yaya Toure in the Primera Liga champions' line-up after the Ivorian departed Barca for Manchester City this summer.

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