Javier Mascherano signs Barcelona contract extension until 2019

Mascherano had confirmed back in July that he would stay with Barcelona having extended his contract for another three years, but only actually got around to the paperwork on Monday.

Juventus had been linked with the midfielder earlier this summer having already landed Dani Alves from Barca, and it was suggested he could replace Paul Pogba, who is tipped to join Manchester United.

Mascherano's fresh extension was confirmed during Andre Gomes’ presentation several months ago.

“Javier Mascherano will continue at FC Barcelona until 30 June 2019, as announced by Director of Professional Sports Albert Soler,” said Barcelona in a statement.

“The Argentine will therefore be extending his current deal by a further year with the club, which was due to end on 30 June 2018.

"Mascherano will be entering his seventh season at Barça in 2016/17. Signed from Liverpool in 2010, the defender has gained the adoration of the fans for his leadership and effort. The fourth captain of the club, as of last season, started as a midfielder but converted to a centre-back where he has become a key player in the team.

"In his time at Barça, he has always played over 40 matches per season, 282 in total, and has picked up 16 titles along the way."