Mascherano won't force Barcelona exit

Barcelona defender Javier Mascherano said he will not force a move away from the Camp Nou after learning that the club has no intentions of selling him.

Despite interest from Juventus - which is on the verge of snapping up former teammate Dani Alves - Mascherano has no problem staying in the Catalan capital.

"Barca have let me know that they have no intention of me leaving. They are very happy with me," the 31-year-old told Ole newspaper, according to Reuters. "When the club, and even more so this club, tells you this, it's very difficult to leave. I am not going to force anything. Nobody deserves that.

"I will do nothing to muddy my relationship with Barcelona."

Mascherano's contract runs until June 2018, complete with a €100-million release clause. He has become one of Barcelona's most important players since signing with the Blaugrana from Liverpool in 2010, transitioning from the midfield to the centre of the defence.

He started in 44 matches across all competitions for Barca last season, and he's currently on duty with Argentina in the Copa America Centenario.

Club secretary Robert Fernandez told reporters last week that he has no doubts as to whether Mascherano will stay.

"We are clear. We will reach an agreement," said Fernandez.

It is a difficult time for the La Liga champion. Defender Marc Bartra also left for Borussia Dortmund after reportedly growing impatient with a lack of playing time at Barcelona.