Los Angeles FC forward Carlos Vela admitted that he was "really close" to joining Barcelona this past winter, confirming that the Spanish giants did indeed reach out regarding a loan deal.
After scoring 14 goals while providing 13 assists in his debut season for LAFC, Vela was the subject of interest from Barca, who spent the winter looking to sign a new attacker.
The Mexican was listed among the rumoured targets, but a move never came to fruition as Barcelona settled for Kevin-Prince Boateng instead.
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Boateng went on to make just four total appearances for Barca, while Vela spent the winter offseason preparing for his second season in MLS.