Former Strikeforce heavyweight Josh Barnett could be heading to the UFC, company president Dana White said.

Barnett (32-6 MMA, 4-1 UFC), who’s first UFC stint and title run ended in 2002 after a failed drug test, is again in negotiations with the organization.

However, a deal hasn’t been finalized.

“We’re talking to Josh Barnett right now,” White said on Tuesday’s edition of “UFC Tonight” on FUEL TV. “Yes, we’re open to bringing him into the UFC. It’s about making a deal now.”

Barnett, a Top 10 heavyweight, recently concluded a 3-1 run in Strikeforce, which included a submission victory over overmatched Nandor Guelmino at the organization’s final show earlier this month. Barnett is now 9-1 over the past four years.

While Barnett and White have often butted heads in the past, it appears bygones will be bygones. In addition to White’s latest comments, Barnett recently hinted at a possible UFC deal in a Facebook post.

“No, I am not in the UFC yet, but I would love to be in the UFC fighting in the Octagon again being back on the mat where I won the heavyweight title 11 years ago,” he wrote. “It’s the biggest promotion, with the most exposure, and the best heavyweight division. Plus it’s abundantly clear – it’s where you guys want to see me fighting.”

Barnett, who’s also competed for organizations such as PRIDE and DREAM during his 16-year career, fought to the final of Strikeforce’s ambitious world heavyweight grand prix, where he suffered a decision loss to Daniel Cormier in late 2012. It was his only fight of the year and snapped an eight-fight win streak. The Guelmino victory got him back in the win column.

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