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Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola confirmed at a press conference that they are negotiating the transfer of Cesc Fabregas with Arsenal. Fabregas has been on Barcelona’s radar since last year and the move may finally materialize this season. The Spanish midfielder spent his boyhood at the club and has been dying to force his way to Spain. His frustration has mounted after Arsenal failed to win any silverware last season inspite of being agonizingly close. Guardiola’s statement comes just days after Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood raised doubts about Barcelona’s interest.
The Spanish Press has floated many stories which say that Fabregas’ worth has gone down in the past year and the eventual bids that would be tabled by the Catalan giants would be measured. In this context Peter Hill-Wood said, “I am not sure how keen they are. There are still stories in the Spanish press, but they don’t talk to us. They’ve made one offer, which works out at around £26m, but that was ages ago“.
Barcelona’s statement comes immediately after this retaliation from Arsenal indicating that the interest is still alive. Guardiola categorically stated that Fabregas would make the move eventually but he was not keen on promising that it would be in this very transfer window. He said, “There is money set aside for this player and until the last day we will try to bring in Cesc because he will make the squad better.” He added a conditional clause to the statement, “Until August 31 there is time, but at times things don`t always work out.”
Arsenal are facing a meltdown this summer with many of their star players expressing a desire to exile. Samir Nasri has made it clear that he would not sign an extension in case he is not allowed to leave the club in case a good deal is tabled. Gael Clichy has already criticized the club after making his move to Manchester City.
Barcelona are looking to strengthen their attack for next season. They are making sure that the distance between them and Real Madrid stays the way it is. They have already closed in on Udinese forward Alexis Sanchez so if they successfully capture the Arsenal captain, it would be money worth the spending.
Cesc Fabregas has felt better to distance himself from the entire speculation after ugly rumours were floated last year. However, Barcelona players have continued to make statements about the player’s imminent future at the Catalan club. Guardiola was his diplomatic best when addressing the issue. He said, “”The position towards Arsenal is one of maximum respect because the club own the player. Also towards the player”.
