Mateu Alemany is ready to perform a U-turn in his decision to join Aston Villa and stay with Barcelona.
The 60-year old director of football was due to take up a senior role at Villa and had agreed a contract in principle but has now decided to remain Spain for personal reasons.
Alemany informed president Joan Laporta of his decision on Wednesday morning and will continue his recruitment role with the support of former Chelsea midfielder Deco alongside him.
The 45-year old Deco, who brokered the £52million deal to take Raphinha from Leeds United to Barcelona last summer, is negotiating a deal to replace Jordi Cruyff who is stepping down from his consultancy role as he looks for a new challenge.