Football
Samuel Marsden 8y

Barcelona's Javier Mascherano hopes Claudio Bravo stays amid Man City talk

Javier Mascherano hopes goalkeeper Claudio Bravo stays at Barcelona amid growing rumours he is set to sign for Manchester City but says he will understand if the Chile international decides to leave.

Catalan newspaper Sport has reported that Barca and City have agreed a €25 million deal for Bravo, while the Manchester Evening News has said talks are at an advanced stage. 

Speaking ahead of Wednesday's Super Cup second leg against Sevilla, Mascherano said the Barcelona players were in the dark over the situation.

"We don't know anything, we don't know if it's true or a lie," he said in a news conference at the Ciutat Esportiva. "If a player decides to leave it's because they believe it's the best decision.

"I hope he stays, Claudio has given us a lot, he's an important part [of the team], but if he goes I will understand because each person looks for the best for themselves, for their families... we are professionals."

Bravo is being linked with City amid doubts over Joe Hart's future, with a source telling ESPN FC that the England international is considering his options.

Mascherano himself appeared close to leaving Camp Nou earlier this summer when Juventus made a move for his services.

The 32-year-old former Liverpool midfielder has since signed a new three-year deal with Barca, although he admitted doubts about his ability had forced him to consider making the switch to Italy. 

Responding to the suggestion he felt underrated at the club, he said: "It wasn't a question of feeling valued, I have always felt valued.

"I don't have any complaints from these six years in respect to what the club has given me.

"I've had chances to play, but after so long you wonder if you can continue at the same level and if it's worth the effort, if you can continue at the heights demanded by this club.

"That's where I was at the end of the season, but I appreciate the club's continued support for me and I think I can continue [at previous levels]. I did have doubts about if I could perform, though."

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