In a move which raises further doubts over the midfielder's
long-term future at the club, he dismissed claims money was the
root of his wish to join Barcelona last summer.
Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is desperate to thrash out fresh
terms with the midfielder to prevent a renewed bid from the Spanish
giants.
He rejected their £30m swoop after Mascherano stunned The Kop
and asked to leave in June.
Anfield officials were convinced he was angling for a
£90k-a-week deal, but Mascherano hit back. He said: "This is not
true.
"I have never asked for a new contract. I already have a
contract with Liverpool. I don't play for the money.
"I play for me and to win things. Money is not important to
me.
"Obviously I will not play for free but why should I?"