The father of AC Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders admits they turned down Barcelona.
The Holland international left AZ Alkmaar for Milan last year in a €20m.
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However, Reijnders could also have joined Barca, with sporting director Deco making an attempt at the time.
Father Martin recalled to AD: "Tijjani was also of interest to several English clubs, who contacted him through intermediaries. Only at Barcelona did I speak directly to Deco, the sporting director. I even checked his profile picture to see if it was really him.
"Of course it's flattering that they wanted him, after all it's Barça, but they were looking for a replacement for Sergio Busquets. Then I also said to Tijjani: 'You're not that kind of player'. Before you know it, you end up on the bench. And you're another footballer who fails abroad..."