Inter Milan are ready to join the battle for Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano.

With Liverpool's board hesitating over coughing up the £17 million needed to secure the Argentina international permanently, Barcelona and Juventus have been in touch with the midfielder's representatives about a January agreement.

Despite Inter president Massimo Moratti's claims this week they won't be active during the winter market, coach Roberto Mancini is pressing for a midfield signing to be made with Patrick Vieira and Ollie Dacourt both out with injury.

Juve are also keen, particularly with summer midfield signings Sergio Almiron and Tiago failing to make an impact so far this season.