Barca´s Fabregas move ´dead´

Barcelona have acknowledged there are no plans to lure Arsenal talisman Cesc Fabregas back to the Camp Nou in the next transfer window.

Fabregas was heavily linked with a move to Barca in last July’s window, with the Spaniard fuelling speculation by admitting it would be a dream come true to play for the club of his youth.

For their part, the La Liga club were understandably keen to woo Fabregas back to Spain, but their efforts were stonewalled by Arsenal.

Despite claims from more than one Spain international that Fabregas was unhappy at the Emirates, the 23-year-old respected the English Premier League club’s decision not to entertain a transfer and has continued to lead the Gunners by example.

Now, with the Catalan club set to visit Arsenal in a tantalising Champions League clash next Wednesday, Barca director of football Raul Sanllehi has admitted their hopes of snaring Fabregas have been dashed for the time being.

“Cesc is a great Catalan player. He played for us as a kid and he will be welcome back at Barcelona for the Champions League match,” Sanllehi said.

“Right now, everything is dead regarding a transfer.”

All-conquering Barca have been in irresistible form this season, but Sanllehi knows Pep Guardiola’s men can not take anything for granted against the dangerous Gunners.

“Arsenal are one of the main challengers for the Champions League,” he said.

“We acknowledge how difficult it is going to be.”