Manchester United have suffered a major set-back today in their pursuit of midfielder Cesc Fabregas, after new Barcelona coach Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino quashed the rumours of selling the Spaniard, reports The Guardian.
David Moyes, the Manchester United boss has earmarked Fabregas as their prime target this summer and insisted that negotiations for the player were on going.
In his first press conference as a Barcelona boss, Martino clearly ruled out the chances of selling Fabregas and insisted that the former Arsenal skipper is very much a part of his plan for the next season. He said:
“I’m not going to involve myself in the club’s accounts, but considering the club has already rejected two offers, I would guess it will reject a third. In other words, Fábregas will remain here.”
Vice president of the Catalan club, Josep Maria Bartomeu, echoed Martino’ words, saying that interest for a top player from a top club is normal and from that perspective, and that bids from Manchester United do not annoy the La Liga giants.
“It gives us pride to have such a good player in our team that United want him because they are a great club. But whatever offer arrives from them we are not going to sell Cesc Fábregas. We are counting on him.”
Manchester United had lodged two reported bids of £25m and £30m respectively for the former Arsenal skipper, both of which were rejected by the Catalan club.
Daily Mail reported today that the Spain international is looking to make a move to England again and has even told his friends that he wishes to join the Red Devils in the summer. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United table any more offers for him or not, but even if they do, it has to be ridiculously tempting in order to change the stance of Barcelona.
The 50-year-old has replaced Tito Vilanova as the new Barcelona manager, who resigned from his post last week as he continues his courageous battle with cancer.
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