Mascherano tipped for Real switch

Real Madrid are reported to have won the race for Argentine midfielder Javier Mascherano.

The River Plate international has been linked with a move away from his homeland in recent weeks, with Arsenal reported to have viewed him as a successor to Patrick Vieira – had the Frenchman decided to quit Highbury in the summer.

Internazionale were also interested, but according to Spanish sources, Real have have now reached agreement with River Plate with the player expected to move to Spain in January when the transfer window opens.