JAVIER MASCHERANO remains a top transfer target for teams from the Chinese Super League, according to reports.
The Barcelona ace only recently signed a new three-year deal but could yet end up in China after snubbing a move last spring.
Spanish newspaper AS via Goal claims a number of CSL outfits are preparing lucrative contracts in a bid to tempt Mascherano away from the Nou Camp.
Luis Enrique has often preferred new arrival Samuel Umtiti alongside Gerard Pique in defence this season, and the Argentine could make the move if his lack of playing time continues.
However, the report adds Mascherano’s preference is to return to River Plate, where he started his career as a youngster.
Juventus came close to landing the 32-year-old in the summer after poaching teammate Dani Alves, and Mascherano admits he almost called time on his Catalan adventure.
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The ex-Liverpool star revealed: “After such a long time here I began to question whether I was going to be able to stay at the ultimate level you need in order to play for Barcelona – and whether the massive effort it takes was still worth it.
“It’s so, so demanding to perform well enough to do your job in this position at Barcelona. I’d begun to doubt and so I considered leaving.
“What I’m glad about is that the club were so strong in their confidence in me. I’ve felt valued all the years I’ve been here, I’ve not got a single thing to moan about.”
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