Garcia was believed to be on the verge of joining Como during the winter transfer window after struggling to secure regular game time in the first half of the season.

The Serie A club were reportedly close to agreeing a €7m (£5.9m) deal with Barcelona, only for Hansi Flick to block the transfer, as he felt Garcia remained an important player at the club and was reluctant to let him depart in January.

Garcia has continued to play a squad role in the second half of the season, and his versatility has proven to be an asset for Barcelona, demonstrated by his recent role covering at right-back for the injured Jules Koundé.

Fabregas makes admission about Garcia

The 24-year-old, who can also play as a centre-back or defensive midfielder, has shown he can be an impact player at the opposite end of the pitch, notably scoring Barcelona's first goal in their agonising extra-time defeat to Inter Milan in the Champions League semi-final second leg.

Despite confirming Como's interest in the defender, Fabregas has now conceded that his pursuit of Garcia will not come to fruition.

"I can confirm that we are interested in Eric Garcia from Barcelona," Fabregas told reporters ahead of Saturday's Serie A clash with Cagliari.

"I like him a lot: he's versatile, a leader, and important to the team. However, he will remain at Barcelona."

Fabregas's comments may disappoint Tottenham Hotspur, who had been linked with a move for the former Manchester City player.

Spurs and Como were reported to be among five clubs keen on Garcia, alongside the Spanish trio of Real Betis, Real Sociedad, and Girona.

Nevertheless, Garcia appears set to stay at Barcelona, even if it means continuing as a squad player rather than enjoying a regular starting position.

He is expected to feature on the right side of defence when Barcelona face their arch-rivals Real Madrid in El Clásico on Sunday.