Source: Team_Talk
I was forced to stay - Fabregas
Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas has hinted that if it was down to him, he would have secured a switch to Barcelona this summer.[LNB] The midfielder was strongly linked with a return to his Catalan roots throughout the transfer window, with both parties making it clear that they wished to reach an agreement.[LNB]However, the deadline for deals passed last week and Gunners skipper Fabregas remains on the books at Emirates Stadium.[LNB]The World Cup winner is not the type of player to mope around and go through the motions as he attempts to force through a move to Camp Nou.[LNB]He is, though, a proud Barcelona native and admits his continued presence in north London is only down to Arsenal's stubborn refusal to discuss a deal with their Spanish rivals.[LNB]Fabregas said: "Barcelona did all they could to sign me but Arsenal told me I had to stay, that there was no way they were going to let me go. [LNB]"In the end I had to stay - but the content of my conversation with Arsene Wenger will remain private."[LNB]While Fabregas is staying put for now, it does appear to be only a matter of time before Barca get their man.[LNB]They are confident a move can be put in place next summer and have already left their number four jersey open for his arrival.[LNB]Barca stars Xavi and Andres Iniesta, who have publicly called for a deal to be done throughout the summer, are also confident that their international colleague will soon be joining them back in his homeland.[LNB]Xavi said: "If the signing has not happened this year, it will happen next."[LNB]Andres Iniesta said: "When you talk with him (Fabregas), you realise how excited he was about the prospect (of joining Barca)."
