Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is ready to cash in on one of his senior players to fund Javier Mascherano's permanent £17 million signing in January.

The Times says Benitez is prepared to offload at least one of John Arne Riise, Mohamed Sissoko and Peter Crouch to raise funds for top-class reinforcements.

Part of the proceeds would be used to fund a £17 million permanent deal to buy Mascherano, whose 18-month lease arrangement expires at the end of the season. The Argentina midfield player, whose economic rights are owned by Media Sports Investments, is keen to make a long-term commitment to Liverpool, despite firm interest from Barcelona.