Manchester City defender Eric Garcia reportedly turned down interest from Premier League duo Arsenal and Chelsea before agreeing a move to Barcelona.
The Spaniard has allegedly agreed a five-year contract to leave the Etihad Stadium this summer and return to the Catalan club where he began his career.
However, according to the Daily Star, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta – who coached Garcia during his time at City – wanted to revamp his defence and recruit the 20-year-old in the summer.
Chelsea were also keen to sign the defender, but both London clubs were made aware that Garcia's mind was set on a return to Spain.
When breaking into the City first team under Pep Guardiola, Garcia was a regular fixture at the heart of defence but since the arrival of Ruben Dias last summer and the renaissance of John Stones, the Spaniard has fallen down the pecking order.
Garcia has made only 10 appearances in all competitions so far this campaign, starting just two matches in the Premier League.
Oliver Thomas
