Las Palmas defender Mauricios Lemos has explained turning down Barcelona last year.

Barca made an attempt for Lemos over the summer.

He told La Republicca: "The sporting director told me they [Barca] were interested and that they were willing to give me an opportunity."

"The offer didn't convince me. We weren't talking about money, just about football. I'm not thinking about money right now, just about improving as a player.

"I came from Russia to a team where I can do that. Las Palmas gives me that opportunity. I want to keep getting better and if I go to another team, it will be to keep playing and getting minutes."

He added: "Of course I know they are a great team and anyone would want to play there, but sometimes you have to leave that to one side and think about yourself. I knew I wouldn't get minutes there."