Barcelona ace Lionel Messi is eager to see Javier Mascherano sign his new contract.

Mascherano is on the brink of penning new terms.

And Messi said: "Mascherano has ended up being a key player. He's become a central defender and has not had a bad match. From experience and personality he is important.

"I wish him to close his renewal and continue for many years at Barca."