Mid-Day Ticker: Barcelona's debt mounts, Mascherano wants Liverpool exit and more

By FRANCO PANIZO

FC Barcelona might have a star-studded cast of players, but that cast comes at a price. A hefty one.

According the club's financial vice president, the club made a loss of $100 million last season. This has caused the net debt to rise to $573 million and gross debt to $716 million.

Part of the issue is because of the bankruptcy of broadcaster Mediapro, with Barcelona claiming new rights-holder Sogecable owes it $49 million.

Here are some more stories to help get you through the day:

Mascherano wants Liverpool exit

Liverpool's offseason continues to get worse.

Amid the news of a potential departure from star striker Fernando Torres comes word that Argentina international Javier Mascherano wants out. Mascherano has told new manager Roy Hodgson that he wants to leave, but Hodgson expects the midfielder to honor his contract, which runs through to 2012.

Mascherano, who has been linked with a move to join former coach Rafael Benitez at Inter Milan, returned Monday from an extended break given by the club to World Cup players. During that break Hodgson attempted to contact Mascherano through several phone calls and voice messages, but he never heard back.

Campbell nears Newcastle deal

Sol Campbell will undergo a medical with Newcastle United on Tuesday afternoon in what will likely finalize his move to the recently-promoted Premiership club. Campbell, who played for Arsenal last season, is expected to help shore up a Newcastle defense that is dealing with the loss of injured Steven Taylor.

Campbell had also been attracting interest from Celtic and Sunderland.

Fabiano plans to stick with Sevilla

Luis Fabiano appears to have ruled out a transfer this summer, as the Brazilian international plans to stick with Sevilla. Having been reportedly eyed by AC Milan, Tottenham and Manchester United, Fabiano said he is happy with the Spanish club and hopes to lift the Spanish Supe! r Cup in August.

Fabiano has one year remaining on his contract.

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What do you think of Barcelona being in so much debt? Expect Mascherano to leave Liverpool this summer? How do you see Campbell doing at Newcastle? Surprised by Fabiano's pledge?

Share your thoughts below.



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