Mascherano free to join Liverpool

West Ham midfielder Javier Mascherano has been given special dispensation by Fifa to join Liverpool from West Ham.
Under Fifa's rules, a footballer cannot play competitively for more than two different clubs between 1 July and 30 June the following year.

Mascherano, 22, has already represented Corinthians and West Ham in that time.

But Fifa said: "The Fifa single judge ruled that Javier Mascherano is eligible to play in official matches with Liverpool with immediate effect."

Interview: Fifa spokesman Andreas Herren

In the statement Fifa explained its ruling was determined partly because the South American and European seasons overlap.

A Liverpool spokesman confirmed: "Fifa has confirmed the player is entitled to play for Liverpool.

606: DEBATE
I dont know what all the fuss is about, Fifa have explained the situation and Liverpool are not breaking the rules

"However, the move from West Ham still needs to be ratified by the Premier League - and we await their decision."

Mascherano arrived at Upton Park with international team-mate Carlos Tevez on 31 August.

But he has played only six minutes since the defeat at Tottenham on 22 October and had been desperate to leave the club.