Mascherano's Liverpool future still uncertain

Liverpool insisted Thursday they had yet to clinch a permanent deal for Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano, pictured on January 2. A statement on Liverpool's official website said: "Contrary to reports elsewhere, the deal to complete Mascherano's permanent move to Liverpool has yet to be finalised."

Liverpool insisted Thursday they had yet to clinch a permanent deal for Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano.

Some reports suggested the Reds had agreed to play 18.6 million pounds for Mascherano, who has been on loan at Anfield for a year.

But a statement on Liverpool's official website said: "Contrary to reports elsewhere, the deal to complete Javier Mascherano's permanent move to Liverpool has yet to be finalised."

However, there was then renewed speculation across the British media that terms had been agreed on a four-year deal which could be completed as early as next week.

Although Thursday was the final day of the January transfer window this had no bearing on Mascherano's status. Liverpool do not have to pay to sign him up immediately as they already hold his registration.