Mauricio Pochettino turned down the Barcelona job before they turned to Quique Setien, it has been revealed.

Barca appointed former Real Betis coach Setien over the New Year after sacking Ernesto Valverde.

However, La Vanguardia the appointment was made only after Barca were in contact with Pochettino.

Barca president Josep Maria Bartomeu, along with directors Ramon Planes and Eric Abidal, met with the former Tottenham manager after Valverde had been dismissed to offer the Argentine the job.

While Pochettino didn't turn them down, his lack of enthusiasm and lack of response forced Barca to look elsewhere for Valverde's replacement - which eventually led to Setien.

Pochettino hasn't been in touch with Bartomeu since their meeting, though he has stated in the past that he'd find coaching Barca difficult given his deep Espanyol ties.