Barcelona step up Cesc Fabregas chase as Arsenal battle to hold onto Spain star

21 May 2010 20:49
Barcelona claimed to have taken the first step in agreeing a deal for Cesc Fabregas and remain determined to land the Arsenal skipper before the World Cup. [LNB]The Spanish champions have pencilled in June 4 or June 9 as potential dates for Fabregas's unveiling. Barcelona technical secretary, Txiki Begiristain, said: 'We have contacted Arsenal to ask them whether they are prepared to negotiate and are waiting for an answer.' [LNB] Fab deal: Barcelona are determined to resign Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas from Arsenal this summer[LNB]The chances of a positive response are slim after Arsenal chairman, Peter Hill- Wood, insisted: 'We don't want to lose him and will do our damnedest to keep him.' [LNB]Arsene Wenger was more concerned with arrivals after striker Marouane Chamakh's move from Bordeaux on a free transfer was confirmed on Friday. [LNB]Wenger said: 'Chamakh is a striker of real quality and has all the attributes suited to come to England and do very well.' [LNB] Done deal: Marouane Chamakh, who will wear the No 29 shirt next season, is unveiled as Arsenal's new signing[LNB]Chamakh, who has signed a five-year deal worth £50,000-a-week, added: 'My goal was to join Arsenal out of all the English clubs. It is a club that makes me dream and I have been a fan since I was a child.' [LNB]  Chamakh's signing was low key compared to that of David Villa at Barcelona, with 35,000 fans at the Nou Camp to welcome the £34million striker. [LNB]Meanwhile, Arsenal have rejected the chance to sign Ajax goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg.[LNB]  Wenger welcomes 'fighter' Chamakh as striker is finally confirmed as a GunnerFabregas is staying! Arsenal chief Hill-Wood hits back at Barcelona bidArsenal poised to make £16m raid for Marseille midfielder MbiaARSENAL FC

Source: Daily_Mail