Mascherano's move to China put on ice due to Umtiti's injury
The player was thinking about a January move
Umtiti's injury means he will be needed by Valverde
The Chinese market is keeping an eye on Javier Mascherano's immediate future at Barcelona.
According to Catalunya Radio, the player has already told the Catalan club he will not continue next season, but it's also not been ruled out that he leaves earlier, due to his desire to play regularly in the World Cup and the club's need to reduce the wage bill.
Mascherano is third choice for Ernesto Valverde, with Samuel Umtiti and Gerard Pique, when all fit, his preferred pairing.
Therefore, the Argentine international was considering an exit. A succulent offer from China and the references from Paulinho about the league had made him think about heading there before the World Cup.
However, the injury to Umtiti, who will be out for two months, will make Mascherano an important part of Valverde's team again, due to the coach's lack of confidence in Vermaelen.
So it seems the decision has been made for Mascherano, because Barça cannot afford to be without him.
