Fabregas to stay at Arsenal

Barcelona and Arsenal have both denied Spanish radio reports that Arsenal's star midfielder and captain, Cesc Fabregas, has struck a verbal agreement with Champions League holders Barcelona to return to the club next season.

Barcelona have flatly denied talking to or agreeing a deal with Fabregas.

Spanish radio reports yesterday morning claimed that the star midfielder had a verbal agreement to join the reigning European champions on a five-year deal this summer.

But the Catalan giants have moved swiftly to deny those reports, and say they have had no contract with Fabregas.

A statement on the club's official website said: "Given the exceptional repercussions created by the stories that have appeared in different media with respect to an agreement with Arsenal FC player Cesc Fàbregas, FCB flatly denies that there have been any negotiations or agreements with the player.

"In accordance with Fifa regulations, FC Barcelona's contract policy has always made it a priority to negotiate with the club of origin before making any particular agreement with the player.

"FC Barcelona wishes to stress that it has always maintained excellent institutional relations with Arsenal FC," it added.

Meanwhile, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger said he was not bothered by the reports.

"There is no concern at all. He is committed when he plays, what's the future? We don't know what will happen in six months, in two years, in five years," Wenger added.

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