Javier Mascherano's advisers have reportedly negotiated salary terms with Barcelona in advance of a transfer fee being agreed with Liverpool.

The Sunday Express also claims that the Reds are holding out for #36-million from the European champions for their star Argentina international midfielder, but are likely to accept #30-million at the end of the season.

If true, the news of Mascherano's impending departure will come as another blow to Anfield fans who have already seen their team slump to seventh in the Premier League table after 12 games and stand on the brink of Champions League elimination.

The Sunday Express report says the defensive midfielder has set his heart on a move to the Nou Camp and would prefer to switch clubs in January, but the Reds intend to keep hold of him until at least the summer transfer window.

Regardless of Mascherano's exit date, recent talks between his agents and the Spanish giants are said to have concluded in a #100 000-a-week wage agreement. The tough-tackling 25-year-old currently earns around #60 000-a-week on Merseyside, with his contract due to expire in 2012, and has rejected offers of a new #90 000-a-week deal.

Barca are also seeking to sign Manchester City forward Robinho, who is keen to return to Spain having failed to settle in England.