New Mascherano deal delayed until after World Cup

Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano's contract negotiations are unlikely to be resolved until after the World Cup. The Argentina captain has been in discussions over a new deal for three months and it was anticipated an agreement would be reached by the end of the season.

He was expected to follow the lead of goalkeeper Jose Reina, who signed a new six-year contract last month, but so far nothing has been finalised. With the players having been released by Liverpool for the summer – which for many, including Mascherano, means preparations for next month's World Cup – it seems likely the Argentine's improved contract will not be sorted until the middle of July at the earliest.

Wigan Athletic have agreed terms to sign Paraguay defender Antolin Alcaraz from Bruges, the club have confirmed.

Birmingham City have decided to let Ecuador striker Christian Benitez go back to Mexico rather than make his loan signing permanent. Signed on a season-long loan from Santos Laguna, Benitez scored four goals in 36 appearances and Birmingham decided not to pay the reported £7m transfer fee.