Javier Mascherano has been expected to leave Barcelona for months, with a big-money move to China on the cards for the defender.

The 33-year-old is tipped to join Chinese Super League side Hebei Fortune after spending close to a decade with Barca.

Spanish outlet Don Balon claim the Argentina international played his final game for the  Catalan side at the Nou Camp on Sunday in a 3-0 win over Levante.

And the former Liverpool man has reportedly made it clear to his team-mates he will soon be departing to the Far East.

The report says his decision is based on a lack of game time as he does not expect to displace Gerard Pique and Thomas Vermaelen at the heart of Barca’s defence.

He is also determined to make the Argentina squad for the World Cup in Russia this summer and thinks a move will help.

Argentina manager Jorge Sampaoli was in attendance at the Nou Camp on Sunday and witnessed a rare start for Mascherano - a further hint he is on his way out.

The experienced centre-half has made just 11 appearances in all competitions for Barca this season, spending much of the campaign on the bench.

Speaking about Mascherano’s planned departure last month, Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde admitted it was a concern for the club.

"It's true that it’s is one of the issues we have to look at,” he said.

“But for the time being, Mascherano is one of our players and when he's played, he's played well. 

“He is committed to the club on and off the field and for the moment we don't have to think about anything else.”