Wenger was ‘on brink’ of Barca switch

FORMER Barcelona president Joan Gaspart claims Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was forced by his club to turn down the chance to coach the Catalan giants, as was England boss Fabio Capello.

Gaspart tried to tempt Wenger to the Nou Camp in 2001, following the dismissal of Llorenc Serra Ferrer and prior to the permanent appointment of interim coach Carles Rexach.

However, Arsenal stood in their way, just as they are currently doing with captain Cesc Fabregas.