5 players who could leave Barcelona in January

#4 Javier Mascherano

A true champion of Camp Nou!

El Jefecito (The Little Chief) has devoted the prime of his career towards FC Barcelona as a silent leader. Now 33, Mascherano is certain to move away from the Catalans as he reaches the end of his star-studded career. Mascherano has made his future ambitions clear in the media and Argentine Central Defender might very well be on his way out of the Nou Camp.

Reports also suggest that he has already informed his teammates of his decision. Mascherano's age and fitness are troubling for the Catalans and Valverde has retained the tested defensive duo of Samuel Umtiti and Gerard Pique at the back.

Barcelona director Guillermo Amor revealed that Masche's future would be clear in a few days after the Argentine and Valverde sit down to discuss their future plans. The 33-year-old has lately been troubled with injuries and Umtiti's rapid rise among the ranks has seen the veteran defender's playtime at the Camp Nou restricted as a substitute.

In this season, Mascherano has featured for Barcelona just ten times in all competitions and the Argentine now seeks a more serious role elsewhere. A return to Argentina or a move to China is on the cards for Mascherano, who desires a 'mentor' type of role in the late stages of his career, as other veterans in the past have favoured doing, including Barcelona midfielder Xavi.

Palmeiras' defender, Yerry Mina, and Real Sociedad player, Inigo Martinez, are among the options Barcelona is reported to be considering to replace Mascherano's. One of the two youngsters could be fortunate enough to be a part of Barcelona's long-term project.