Lionel Messi has described the arrival of his fellow Argentine Javier Mascherano at Barcelona as a 'joy'.
The midfielder has joined the Camp Nou giants in a £22million move from Liverpool, with the two clubs having finally come to agreement as deadline day approached.
Mascherano had made no secret of his desire to depart Anfield and the likes of Barca and Inter Milan were heavily linked with him throughout the summer.
The Primera Liga outfit ultimately won the race for his signature, with Messi having played a big part in that achievement after urging his employers to snap up his countryman.
The reigning World Player of the Year is delighted to have seen his efforts pay off and is of the opinion that Mascherano will be a resounding success in Catalunya.
Messi said: "He's a great player. In addition to what he can do in football, his arrival is a joy for me.
"Barcelona wanted him for what he means as a player and as a person, I am very glad that he signed.
"He's a great player, he really helps us, hopefully this season we can keep winning titles with Barcelona's shirt."
