Latest Football Transfer News 27-07-2012

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Mascherano extends Barca deal

Argentina captain praised by the world's best player for his efforts
Last Updated: July 27, 2012 6:20pm


Javier Mascherano: Barcelona midfielder extends his contract with the club


Barcelona have confirmed Javier Mascherano has signed a new two-year contract extension which will keep him at the club until 2016.
The 28-year-old was bought by previous manager Pep Guardiola and made his name as a central midfielder.
However, that did not stop Guardiola from converting him into a centre-back and he has excelled in that role.
On his arrival at the Nou Camp, Carles Puyol was injured which provided an opportunity for Guardiola to play the Argentina captain in that role.
Key player

His contribution to the team has been duly noted by Barca's star player, including his compatriot Lionel Messi.
"Mascherano has become a key player for us," he said.
"Since Guardiola played him in central defence I don't think he has had a bad game."
During his time at the club Mascherano has won one Primera Liga title, the Copa del Rey, the 2010/11 UEFA Champions League, the 2011 UEFA Super Cup and, last December, the FIFA Club World Cup.

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Hleb rejoins BATE

Belarus side are without five players who are on Olympic duty
Last Updated: July 27, 2012 5:00pm


Alexander Hleb: The midfielder played 129 for Arsenal including the 2006 UEFA Champions League final


Alexander Hleb has made an emotional return to the club where he started his career by signing a deal at BATE Borisov.
The 31-year-old Belarus international helped BATE win the league title in his first season with the club back in 1999 before plying his trade at Stuttgart, Arsenal and then Barcelona.


And Hleb is delighted to be back at the club where it all began as they prepare to host Debrecen in the first leg of their Champions League third qualifying round on Wednesday.
"I'm happy to return to BATE," he told the club's official website. "The team is in a difficult situation with regards personnel at the minute because of the number of players who have gone to the Olympics. I was asked to help, which I'm happy to do.
"I took my first steps here and then went into Europe. I would like to thank the club and I will do everything I can to help achieve our goals."

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Fulham eye Benayoun move - report
Last Updated: July 27 2012, 13:40 BST

Sky Sports understands Fulham are weighing up a move for Chelsea midfielder Yossi Benayoun.



Yossi Benayoun: Attracting interest from Fulham
Benayoun is likely to leave Chelsea this summer as he seems surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge.
The Israel international spent last season on loan at Arsenal and the summer arrivals of Eden Hazard, Marko Marin and Oscar have pushed him further down the pecking order in Roberto Di Matteo's plans.
Fulham boss Martin Jol is thought to be an admirer of Benayoun and is considering bringing him to Craven Cottage.

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Yossi Benayoun

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*Current Season

The Cottagers are thought to have enquired about taking the 32-year-old on loan with a view to a permanent move.
Jol is keen to add to his attacking options after losing Danny Murphy earlier this summer and he could move for Benayoun if Chelsea decide to let him move on.
A number of other clubs at home and abroad are thought to be keeping tabs on Benayoun's situation with the former Liverpool man weighing up his options.