Cesc 'agrees deal' with Barca as fears heighten over Arsenal star's future
The future of Cesc Fabregas at Arsenal was plunged into fresh doubt today after it was claimed he has agreed a deal to sign for Barcelona.
10 Feb 2010 - 11:22:45
The future of Cesc Fabregas at Arsenal was plunged into fresh doubt today after it was claimed he has agreed a deal to sign for Barcelona.
Fabregas is a long-time target of the Spanish giants and they refuse to give up in their hunt despite the star repeatedly insisting he is happy at the Emirates.
Despite Arsenal's four trophyless seasons, the Spanish midfielder has remained committed to the north London club.
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However, there are now heightened fears surrounding the Gunners star after it was reported that he has struck a verbal agreement to join Barcelona in the summer.
'There is a firm agreement between Barca and Cesc Fabregas, even if it is only verbal,' reported Spanish radio station Cadena Ser.
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'Several meetings have taken place and, following those meetings, Cesc told Barca that he wanted to rejoin them from next season.'
Cadena Ser added that the deal would be subject to agreeing a fee with Arsenal. Barcelona have neither confirmed nor denied the report.
Fabregas is Arsenal's top scorer with 14 goals in all competitions this season and is under contract with the Gunners until 2014. But his future has once again been the subject of much speculation this season.
Fabregas has been chased by both Real Madrid and his boyhood club Barcelona, who he left to join the Gunners in 2003 at the age of 16.
Arsenal have been keen to ward off potential suitors from their prized asset - yet their continued struggle to land silverware could influence Fabregas's decision.
Fabregas has seen a string of key players - including Thierry Henry, Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Adebayor - leave in recent seasons, while manager Arsene Wenger has been reluctant to spend big in an attempt to keep track with rivals Manchester United and Chelsea.
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