Barcelona made a move for Ferran Torres instead of his former Manchester City team-mate Raheem Sterling as the Nou Camp chiefs did not believe the England international would adapt to life at the club.
Sterling faced troubles at the start of the season, struggling to break into Pep Guardiola's side, despite impressing during England's run to the Euro 2020 final last summer.
The England international's difficulties at the Etihad led to him being linked to a move away with Barcelona emerging as favourites for his signature at one stage.