Liverpool offer to Mascherano

Liverpool are preparing to offer Javier Mascherano a two-year contract extension in an effort to thwart renewed interest in the midfielder from Barcelona.

The former West Ham player has two years left on his contract, which was signed in February 2007, but Liverpool are mindful of Barcelona's persistent attempts to lure Mascherano to to the Nou Camp last summer.

With Xabi Alonso being sold to Real Madrid, Rafael Benitez was able to block the sale of Mascherano to the European champions, but he remains a target and the Anfield hierarchy are aiming to open talks with the player's representative in an attempt to secure his services until 2014.

Meanwhile, Liverpool face an injury crisis in central defence. Martin Skrtel will miss most of the rest of the season due to the broken metatarsal in his right foot he sustained against Unirea Urziceni. He will not need surgery, but he will be absent for up to eight weeks.

Daniel Agger is also poised to undergo intensive treatment ahead of next week's Europa League clash with Lille after scans yesterday showed severe bruising to his knee following Sunday's win over Blackburn.

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the views or position of Liverpool Football Club.