Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano is angling for a move to Barcelona.

The Mail on Sunday says Mascherano has fallen out with manager Rafa Benitez over his rotation policy and now wants to leave Anfield.

The 25-yearold captain of Argentina is now pressing for a move to La Liga, declaring he is 'flattered' by reported interest from Barcelona.

The player's attempt to force his way out of Anfield has stunned Benitez, who is also having to reconsider letting Xabi Alonso go to Real Madrid for an inflated £35million.

Benitez has always regarded Mascherano as one of his "untouchables" along with Pepe Reina, Steve Gerrard and Fernando Torres. He saved him from rotting in the reserves at West Ham and hopes their past ties will help him talk the player round to staying.

But if Mascherano sticks to his guns, it leaves the Spanish manager needing to re-think his entire summer transfer strategy.