Don't think we'll be afraid anymore. This team has all the confidence it needs after this season. It knows it's capable of great things.
Yes, he's worth it for his playing abilities but he's also 32 within 10 days... I'd say 10-15 is a reasonable price. Would I pay 20m if they don't budge? Probably yes, but it's overspending.
So what may be assumed a fair price for him then. I'd acknowledge that €20m seems a lot for a player of that age but I'd reckon that his fitness and sustainability levels are good enough to get this wrapped up quickly at a figure not unadjacent to €18m (£14m) .
I realize that we have a reputation as a club of cheesepairing parsimoniousness. Nonetheless, his experience and acknowledgement of his defensive capabilities makes it a no-brainer to offer a three year contract.
So Alves, Mascherano and Berardi almost sorted. Now for Cavani to replace Morata if the Spaniard leaves.
Mascherano is as close to a Tevez deal you're going to get, for age, value and ability. There is no better player than this guy at that price that will have an immediate impact for us in the CL.