I'm close to Liverpool deal, says Mascherano

Liverpool's Argentinian footballer Javier Mascherano, seen here on February 18, 2008, said Thursday that he is "really close" to finalising a permanent deal with Liverpool.

Argentinian midfielder Javier Mascherano said Thursday that he is "really close" to finalising a permanent deal with Liverpool.

The Argentina international, who is owned by the Media Sports Investments consortium, has been on loan at Anfield for the past year.

Manager Rafael Benitez has long been keen to secure the influential player - who is expected to cost the club around 18 million pounds - on a permanent basis.

A deal can be concluded outside of a transfer window because Mascherano does not belong to another club.

The 23-year-old told the Reds' official website, www.liverpoolfc.tv: "We are really close. Maybe this week or next week we will be able to say everything's finished.

"We can't say it just yet but hopefully in a few days everything will be okay."

Mascherano came to Liverpool after a controversial stint at West Ham and played a key role in the club's run to the Champions League final last season where the Reds lost to AC Milan.

"I have always said I want to stay here and so it hasn't been a difficult time for me," added the Argentine midfielder.

"I have wanted it to be finished because I have my family behind me and I want to know what my future is going to be. I am calm and relaxed because I know that everything is almost over.

"I am very happy that in the next week I will be able to say I have signed for Liverpool.

"It will be the best moment of my career to be able to say I will be playing my football with Liverpool."