Barcelona reportedly attempted to bring Andres Iniesta back to the club during the January transfer window.
The 35-year-old - widely regarded as one of Barca's best-ever players - left Camp Nou in 2018 to join Japanese outfit Vissel Kobe.
The Spaniard has been a key figure during his time in Japan, scoring 10 times and providing 11 assists in 41 appearances for the team that he currently captains.
According to Sport, Barca contacted Vissel Kobe in January to discuss a possible loan deal for the midfielder, but the Asian side were quick to reject the interest.
The report claims that the Spanish champions wanted Iniesta to bring a sense of familiarity to the club during a difficult period, with new head coach Quique Setien seemingly attempting to take the team in a different direction.
Iniesta, who still has two years left to run on his contract in Japan, made close to 700 appearances for Barca in all competitions before seeking pastures new.
Matt Law
