Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano has dropped a bombshell, admitting he is learning Italian.

The Argentine midfielder has been named as the prime transfer target for new Inter Milan coach Rafa Benitez.

A move is considered very likely by the media both in Italy and England, though at the moment he is in South Africa for the World Cup.

"Am I studying the Italian language? Yes, I am learning Italian while I'm here in South Africa," Mascherano told journalists.

"I don't know what I will do after the tournament. We shall see."