Former Barcelona sporting director Ramon Planes admits they tried to sign three Serie A stars while he was at the Nou Camp.

Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez, plus Juventus pair Manuel Locatelli and Dusan Vlahovic were all considered.

“He was really, really close," Planes said of Lautaro.

"We had held many meetings with his agents and Inter directors before the pandemic, which has changed football at an economic level."

Asked about the Juve pair, Planes continued: “Yes, for both."

“Vlahovic is really strong. We wanted to sign him on loan two years ago," he continued.

“Locatelli is a perfect player for Barcelona, but Juventus are an important club and in the end, we didn't get him."