Barcelona director of football Andoni Zubizarreta says talks to extend Javier Mascherano’s contract are at an advanced stage.
Zubizarreta was alongside Tito Vilanova at the new Barcelona boss’s first official Press conference and, while refusing to provide details of ongoing negotiations with the versatile Mascherano, said the Argentine’s contract with the Catalans was close to be being extended.
“Things are well advanced. His contract is at an advanced stage and we will see if we can tie things up over the next few weeks,” said Zubizarreta, who also spoke about the renewal of Carles Puyol’s current agreement.
“In his case it goes beyond his contract. When he returns from holiday we’ll talk to him about how he sees his future.”
Adriano is another player wishing to extend his existing deal at the Camp Nou.
“We have not discussed things with his agent but we were happy with his performances towards the end of last season,” Zubizarreta confirmed, before commenting on whether Cristian Tello, who has been linked with a number of clubs including Atletico Madrid, would have a more prominent role to play in Vilanova’s team next season.
“Tello is a Barcelona B player although he was practically in the first team in the second half of last year.
“We will assess his situation with the Coach.”
