The Catalans were keen to sign the German ahead of this season, but the 26-year-old defender opted to stay in the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich

Bayern Munich defender Jerome Boateng has revealed that he turned down the chance to join Barcelona ahead of the 2014-15 campaign.

The Catalans were desperate to strengthen their defence last summer and had earmarked the Germany international as the ideal addition to their back-line.

However, Boateng decided to stay at Bayern instead and Barca eventually signed Thomas Vermaelen and Jeremy Mathieu from Arsenal and Valencia respectively.

"I do not know the exact details of how much Barcelona offered for me, but it is true that they wanted to sign me," Boateng told Sport Bild.

"It's hugely flattering when a club like Barcelona show an interest in signing you. But these days, you no longer leave Bayern Munich for Barcelona when you want to win the Champions League.

"At Bayern, I play for one of the four best clubs in the world. There is no better club for a German player.

"I would be delighted if I could stay at Bayern for a long time and end my career here after winning many trophies."

The 26-year-old has made over 150 official appearances for the Bavarians since joining them from Manchester City in July 2011 with his contract running until June 2018.