Official: Barcelona star to leave in the January transfer window

What's the story?

Barcelona star Javier Mascherano has been continuously linked with an exit in the January transfer window and now the club's official website has confirmed that the Argentine star will be leaving the Catalan giants in the coming days.

The club also said that they will be hosting a leaving ceremony for the 33-year-old:

"The Argentinian will be receiving an institutional farewell from the club on Wednesday at 11.00am CET in the Auditori 1899, at an event that will be streamed on the club website.

"It will be attended by club president Josep Maria Bartomeu and the first team squad."

Mascherano has played close to seven and a half seasons for Barcelona and won 18 trophies during his spell.

In case you didn't know...

Mascherano has been an excellent servant for Barcelona

Having made the move from Liverpool in 2010, Mascherano was an integral part of one of the most successful eras in Barcelona's history. Initially bought as a defensive midfielder, the Argentine soon developed into one of the most dependable ball-playing centre-backs. Capable of picking out excellent passes from the back, the Argentine's presence in the first team and dressing room will definitely be missed.

The heart of the matter

Having donned the famous 'number 14' jersey of Johan Cruyff, Mascherano served the club with distinction and was used extensively under both Tito Vilanova and Luis Enrique. Now, with age catching up, the former Liverpool man has made only 6 starts this season and he is on the move looking for regular playing time.

Mascherano's move could mean that new signing Coutinho will be wearing the 'number 14' jersey and the Brazilian will be hoping to be as successful as Mascherano was at Barcelona.

Video

Only 3 foreigners (Lionel Messi, Daniel Alves, and Phillip Cocu) have played more games for Barcelona than Mascherano. What a player he has been for the Catalan giants!

Author's take

Mascherano has been one of Barcelona's most dependable players and it is only right that the club has arranged a leaving ceremony for a player who gave his all on the pitch.

Already 33, Mascherano will be looking for one last payday before calling time on his illustrious and highly successful playing career.