Agger close to new Liverpool deal

Soccer Betting Lines

05/01/2009 - Liverpool, England (Sportsbook Betting Lines) - Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has confirmed that Denmark international Daniel Agger is close to agreeing to a new contract at Anfield.

The 24-year-old was linked with a move to AC Milan earlier in the season but it now seems certain that he will be staying on Merseyside.

"It is very close," said Benitez. "We are just waiting on the small details but it is nearly done. We have to wait a little bit longer but we are very close.

"He is very happy here and I have always supported him. Hopefully it will be done."

Benitez has also dismissed reports suggesting Javier Mascherano will be leaving the Reds in the summer.

He added: "I was talking with Javier earlier and everything is okay.

"He is really pleased here because he knows the fans love him. He can't avoid big clubs asking about him because he is a top-class player, but he is very happy here."

Meanwhile, captain Steven Gerrard is available to play against Newcastle this weekend after recovering from the groin strain that has sidelined him since last month's Champions League defeat to Chelsea at Anfield.

(Courtesy of sportbox.tv)

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