Javier Mascherano has been linked with a surprise return to Liverpool in the summer – thanks to Lionel Messi.

According to Sky Sports, Barcelona forward Lionel Messi thinks his Argentine compatriot and team-mate Javier Mascherano may return to Liverpool. The 33-year-old's time at the Camp Nou is coming to an end, with the club having found a replacement in Colombia centre-back Yerry Mina. Mascherano is also believed to have offers from MLS clubs and Paris Saint-Germain.

Mascherano was hugely popular during three-and-a-half years at Anfield before moving to Barcelona in August 2010. The Argentina international was converted from central midfielder to centre-back and has won a host of honours with the Catalans, including four La Liga titles and the Champions League twice.