No Barca contact

Liverpool say they are not expecting interest from Barcelona for Javier Mascherano when they January transfer window opens.

The speculation has been constant about the Argentine midfielder and, as they transfer window approaches, there is talk of a massive £30m bid for the player.

However, there has been no contact between the clubs since the summer when Barca were informed Mascherano was not for sale.

Rafa Benitez has remained quiet about his transfer plans in the New Year and a lot will depend on whether the side are considered to be still in with a shout of winning either the Premiership or the Champions League.