Barcelona have turned down the chance to reunite with veteran right-back Dani Alves, despite the Brazilian offering his services to the struggling club.
The 38-year-old is eyeing a return to football in 2022 after leaving Sao Paulo in September, and he recently went public with his willingness to return to Barcelona if those in charge at Camp Nou felt there was a role for him.
That prompted plenty of reports suggesting Barcelona were set to speak with Alves about a possible January move, but according to Marca, a reunion with the heavily decorated defender has already been ruled out.
Despite current injury problems, Barcelona aren't looking to strengthen at right-back, where Sergino Dest and Sergi Roberto share the minutes, and they also do not want to bring in ageing players while their focus is on a youth rebuild.
Club officials have obvious respect and adoration for Alves, but they have made it clear that they are looking to move in a different direction and do not plan on offering him a contract.
Reports of an imminent meeting between Barcelona and Alves are thought to be wide of the mark, and the defender himself has confirmed through his press office (via Sport) that no appointments with Barcelona are in the diary.
As for Barcelona, their focus is on finding more cover in attack, where Martin Braithwaite is injured and Sergio Aguero has been sidelined by a heart problem.
Marca put the focus on Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling, whom manager Pep Guardiola recently admitted would likely to tempted by a move to Camp Nou.
A loan move for the Englishman is being considered, but other names being discussed at the club are Manchester United's Edinson Cavani and Chelsea's Timo Werner, neither of whom are first choice with their respective teams.
This article was originally published on 90min as Barcelona reject chance to re-sign Dani Alves.
Source: www.90min.com