Mateu Alemany wanted to sign Nahuel Molina before Joao Cancelo's option emerged, reports Marca's Isaac Suarez.
Barca's former sporting director realised that it would be impossible to make an offer that would delight Atletico Madrid. Besides, the right-back is now considered irreplaceable by Diego Simeone, even though his salary doesn't quite match his status.
Bayern Munich and Juventus also considered signing the Argentine last summer. Molina ended up staying at Atletico Madrid while Barcelona signed Joao Cancelo on loan.
Molina played a big role in Argentina's glorious World Cup campaign. It was him to score from Leo Messi's gorgeous assist against the Netherlands in the quarterfinals. At a club level, the 25-year-old has improved dramatically this year.
