JAVIER MASCHERANO edged closer to the Anfield exit door following extraordinary claims by his agent.

Representing the Liverpool player, Walter Tamer said it would be ‘a dream’ for Mascherano to be reunited with former manager Rafael Benitez at Inter Milan and that it is ‘a magical taste’ for the Argentina captain to be linked with the San Siro club.

“Mascherano has not spoken to Roy Hodgson nor with Liverpool,” said Tamer.

“After the World Cup, he has switched off but it’s clear that he is happy to be a target of top clubs in the transfer market.

“Last season, it was the European champions Barcelona that wanted him and this year it’s Inter, the current Champions League winners.

“For him to be linked to Inter has a magical taste. It’s a dream. Think about it. The strongest team in the world want him; the team where many of Mascherano’s compatriots play and a side that is now guided by a coach with who Mascherano has a personal bond.”

Mascherano has been tipped to leave Liverpool since Benitez’s departure last month.

However, he is contracted to the club until June 2012 meaning Inter will have to meet the £25m-£30million asking price should Liverpool agree to sell.