The central defender moved to the Spanish side in 2007 and has since made over 100 appearances for the club.

He has been capped 12 times by Argentina and could return to the side that he played for between 2005 and 2007.

But Boca Juniors may face competition from league rivals Racing de Avellaneda despite the 32-year-old being under contract until the end of next season.

Strenghten

Boca president Daniel Angelici said: "We have to strengthen the centre of our defence.

"Cata is always an option. It will depend on the price of any deal, but it would be great for us if he came here."

Meanwhile, Boca Juniors striker Dario Cvitanich looks set to end his stay with the Argentine club and will return to his parent club Ajax.

The 27-year-old is on loan in South America after they initially asked to buy him for 2.5 million euros before March 31.

But Ajax have not received a fee and will be recalling the Argentine striker rather than allowing Boca to keep him.