Barcelona transfer news: Toronto forward Sebastian Giovinco reveals approach over January move

Toronto FC forward Sebastian Giovinco has revealed that Barcelona recently made a "small approach" to lure him to the Nou Camp during the current transfer window. The former Juventus star admitted that he "didn't believe" the Champions League winners were interested in securing his services, but ruled out a move to the La Liga giants as he is very happy at the MLS outfit.

The 28-year-old moved to the Canada last summer after falling out of favour at Juventus under Max Allegri. But reports in Spain have suggested the Catalan giants were considering offering him a return to Europe following an impressive debut campaign in the MLS, scoring 22 goals and providing 13 assists in 34 appearances for Toronto.

The Italy international has now confirmed the rumours during an interview with Sportitalia.

He said: "I didn't believe it myself. It was true though, even if there was nothing concrete. [It was] a small approach, shall we say."

Luis Enrique is said to be in the market for a versatile forward to fill the gap left by the departure of Pedro Rodriguez to Chelsea over the summer. He has identified the Celta Vigo forward as his top priority, but with the club unable to afford his signing, Spanish newspaper Sport reported in November that Giovinco could be on the table as a cheaper alternative.

However, the player is unlikely to move, suggesting his only desire to return to Europe would be to go back to Juventus.

"I'm very happy with the choice I made," he said, before adding: "Juventus? I miss it, but I made the choice and I'm delighted.

"I knew MLS was a growing league, and I wanted a change of lifestyle. Serie A? For now I don't miss it – we'll see in a couple of years – but at the moment I'm happy. I don't know what will happen in the future – you can never say never in football. Football in MLS is growing, and in five or six years it will be an even more important league."