Javier Mascherano is still to sign a new contract with Liverpool.
Two months ago manager Rafa Benitez confidently predicted the Argentina captain and goalkeeper Jose Reina would commit their long-term futures to the club.
Reina has already done so, signing a six-year deal, but Mascherano's contract is yet to be finalised.
Benitez's departure appears to be becoming increasingly unlikely with his agent Manuel Garcia Quilon providing almost daily updates on the situation.
"At the moment it is more likely that Rafa will remain in England," he told calciomercato.it.
However, he stressed Benitez needed some positive news on the financial front.
"The aspect of investment on the team is important because Liverpool need reinforcements," he added.