Liverpool are reportedly considering a sensational bid to re-sign former player Javier Mascherano, who is currently playing for Barcelona. The 33-year-old joined Liverpool from West Ham United back in 2007 and went on to play almost 150 times for the Reds while forging a strong midfield partnership with the likes of Xabi Alonso and Steven Gerrard.
He was a key midfielder for the Reds under then-manager Rafael Benitez, but Mascherano moved on to Barcelona in the summer of 2010. His work rate in the middle of the park continues to be unparalleled for the Reds, but it is quite interesting that current Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is considering him as a potential candidate.
Over the years at Barcelona, Mascherano had to adapt to a lot of changes. Although he spent most of his time as a midfield enforcer for Liverpool, the Argentinian had to adapt to playing as a central defender at Barcelona. In fact, he has appeared more than 300 times for the Spanish club while winning four league titles and two Champions League trophies.
Mascherano is an essential figure in the club but there is no denying that his influence is waning at Camp Nou. He is being somewhat phased out of the Barca side given his advancing years. The player has started less than half of their games this season. Mascherano could either leave in January or in 2019 once his contract expires.
Considering the defensive frailties at Liverpool, Klopp could be looking at Mascherano to bring in more solidity and stability at the back. The Reds do lack Mascherano’s power at the back, and whether it’s as a centre-back or as a holding midfielder, the Barcelona man could offer a lot of support for Liverpool.
However, Klopp needs to bear in mind that Mascherano is nearing the twilight years of his career. Liverpool did struggle to replace him since he left, but re-signing him at 33 to fill that void may become more of a problem rather than a solution. He was a star for Liverpool in 2008/09 when the Merseyside club fought for the title but he has slowed down over the years.
Thus, instead of splashing out money on a former superstar, Liverpool will most likely be better off by seeking a younger alternative. Furthermore, it will be a surprise to see a manager like Klopp go for a veteran like Mascherano even though the player has an illustrious history with the Anfield club.
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