A section of the Chinese media has claimed that Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta does not possess the quality required to feature in the nation's top flight.

Iniesta has been linked with a summer move to Chongqing Dangdai Lifan after a glittering career at Camp Nou, where he has netted 56 goals in 648 appearances in all competitions.

However, according to the Chongqing Morning Post, the Chinese Super League club should not push through with the transfer of the legendary Spanish international.

The article has claimed that the 33-year-old would not be able to reach the expectations of the division, despite still holding down a regular place in the starting lineup at the La Liga leaders.

During his time with the Catalan giants, Iniesta has won eight league titles and four Champions League trophies, while the playmaker has made the FIFA FIFPro World XI for the past nine seasons.

Chongqing are currently managed by former Portuguese international Paulo Bento, with Brazilian Alan Kardec regarded as their star man.