Javier Mascherano agrees new Barcelona deal

Javier Mascherano has agreed a new long-term contract with Barcelona.

The Argentine international, who is expected to be restored to his usual central midfield position this season, will be contracted to the Catalan side until at least the summer of 2018 when he puts pen to paper next week.

"FC Barcelona have announced that Javier Mascherano will sign an improved and extended contract on Tuesday August 26 that will see him stay at the club until June 30, 2018," a statement read.

"This extension was agreed and announced just before the start of the World Cup in Brazil, where Mascherano was playing for Argentina."

Mascherano joined Barca from Liverpool in 2010.