Arsene Wenger, Fabio Capello were approached to coach Barcelona in 2001: Joan Gaspart

Former Barcelona president Joan Gaspart claims that Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was forced by his club to turn down a move to Nou Camp in 2001, as was England manager Fabio Capello.

Gaspart said that his club had tried to tempt Wenger after the dismissal of Llorenc Serra Ferrer, and prior to the permanent appointment of interim coach Carles Rexach.

“When Llorenc Serra Ferrer left we negotiated with Arsene Wenger and Fabio Capello to coach Barca,” The Sun quoted Gaspart, as saying.

“I met Wenger in Paris. He wanted to come to Barca, but Arsenal didn’t let him. The Arsenal chairman ordered him to fulfil his contract. Capello also wanted to come, but Roma didn’t let him,” he added.

Currently, Barcelona is trying to sign Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas, who had spent six years in Barca’s youth team before joining Arsenal in 2003.

He has five years remaining on his contract, and the Gunners have already turned down a 30 million pound bid from the Catalan club.