The Argentine was expected to move to the Nou Camp at the end of the season after Barca had agreed an £8 million fee with Racing last month.

However, while Garay's personal demands were initially blamed for the deal collapsing, DiarioSport says it was actually Rijkaard who ruled out the youngster's signing.

In a sure sign that the Dutchman will be in charge next season, Rijkaard told directors that he preferred they hang onto Rafael Marquez than sell the Mexican and replace him with Garay in the summer.