Jonathan dos Santos: 'I almost left Barcelona'

Barcelona midfielder Jonathan dos Santos has revealed that he came close to joining fellow La Liga outfit Real Sociedad before the end of the transfer window.

However, the 23-year-old was talked out of a move by new Barca boss Gerardo Martino, who replaced Tito Vilanova at the helm of the club this summer.

"El Tata is close to the players, he encourages the players, he has clear ideas and is doing a great job," Dos Santos told Esport Cope.

"I almost had both feet out of Barca, I had almost closed the deal to go to Real Sociedad, but in the end, with the arrival of Tata I stayed. The players emerge to prominence here at 24 or 25.

"I can play here, I have the conditions, but I have to work and learn from my peers. My dream is to succeed in the best team in the world. It is difficult to reach the first team and now I want to realise that dream."

Dos Santos had also been linked with a loan move to Fiorentina.