Mascherano's future looks like it may involve a move to Naples. Rafa Benítez's interest in a player he worked with at Liverpool and has always admired is no great surprise.

Benítez had so much confidence in Mascherano that, as well as forging a powerful team core alongside Xabi Alonso, he converted the Argentine into a complete all-rounder, even using him as a right-back.

There has already been contact between the two parties with a view to doing business in the summer. Napoli already knows that Barça is willing to listen to an offer from the Italian side and that Mascherano is keen on the idea. The Catalonian club is also aware of the possibility of cashing in on a player with a contract that runs to 30th June 2016.

Mascherano is interested in working with Rafa Benítez again, and also the possibility of having played in the three biggest competitions in Europe: Premier league, 'La Liga' and now, 'Serie A'. In moving to Italy he would also arrive at a place that already has a love affair with Argentines thanks to Maradona's time at the club.

Mascherano knows that his chances of getting a game will take a big hit if he stays with Barcelona next season. The 'Azulgranas' are sure to sign one or two centre backs and as a result he'll get far fewer opportunities to play in the back row.

Furthermore, it's increasingly obvious that Barcelona needs an out-and-out centre back alongside Piqué for those big ties that place the defence under pressure.