Barcelona manager Hansi Flick blocked defender Eric García from leaving the club during the January transfer window.

This was disclosed by football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano in a tweet via his X account on Wednesday.

According to Romano, García’s deal with Como was almost finalised for a €7m fee, but Flick called it off.

“Hansi Flick blocked Eric García’s exit in January as he considers him an important player for Barça’s plans,” Romano tweeted.

“The deal with Como was almost done for a €7m fee plus add-ons, but was then called off as Flick insisted on keeping Eric.”

García joined Barcelona from Premier League champions Manchester City in 2021.

The 24-year-old had previously spent time on loan at Girona.

García scored a goal in Barcelona’s 4-1 win against Sevilla in La Liga last weekend.