Neymar: Barcelona striker will stay at club for 'a long time'

Neymar and Mascherano helped Barcelona win La Liga and the Copa del Rey this season

Barcelona forward Neymar is set to sign a new long-term contract, says sporting director Robert Fernandez.

Brazil captain Neymar, 24, whose contract expires in 2018, has been linked with several moves away from the Nou Camp, including to Real Madrid.

But Fernandez said: "He will stay. He will be here for a long time. The club will make it public when the extension is to be made."

Neymar scored 31 goals this season as Barcelona won a league and cup double.

Fernandez is also confident that defender Javier Mascherano will remain at the club.

The Argentine, who has two years remaining on his contract, has reportedly agreed a move to Italian champions Juventus.

"We will reach an agreement," said Fernandez. "He is a vital player for us and I don't have any doubts about whether he will stay."

Mascherano, 31, has been a regular for Barcelona since his arrival from Liverpool in 2010.