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Barcelona failed to secure a loan move to bring back club legend

Spanish giants FC Barcelona reportedly failed in a bid to re-sign club legend Andres Iniesta from Vissel Kobe during the winter transfer window. 

The 25-year-old spent 22 years of his career at the Nou Camp before his departure to Japan in 2018. 

The legendary midfielder won as many as 35 trophies with the club during that period. 

As per reports in Spain, his former employers wanted him back in January to bolster their midfield. 

According to reports in Spain, Barcelona tried to sign Iniesta on loan for the rest of the season during the January transfer window. 

The report states the move was lodged to try and restore the club’s values to the current squad. 

But Vissel Kobe rejected the approach due to the Spaniard's importance and standing in the Far East. 

Iniesta is entering his third season with Vissel Kobe and has excelled during his time in Japan. 

The former La Masia youth product has two years remaining on his contract with Vissel Kobe and also captains the side. 

Image Credits - Barca Blaugranes

The 35-year-old has already helped them to win the Emperor’s Cup and the Japanese Super Cup. 

Iniesta, one-time World Cup winner with Spain, pockets £450,000-a-week when joining the J-League outfit, making him one of the best-paid players on the planet. 

Barcelona’s new boss Quique Setien even told the club’s official TV channel he would welcome the veteran back. 

He said: “Iniesta, although he hasn’t retired.. maybe we could still bring him back!” 

Barcelona have struggled this season as find themselves three points behind Real Madrid in the La Liga table. 

They have already parted ways with Ernesto Valverde in the middle of the season and have brought in Quique Setien as his replacement. 

And, they have also been hit by injuries badly with Luis Suarez set to miss almost the whole of season.

 

Featured Image Credits - AS

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