Man U have given up on Cesc: Barcelona

Barcelona sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta has claimed that Manchester United have abandoned their interest in Cesc Fabregas, according to reports in the Spanish media. United, who have yet to make a major signing since David Moyes succeeded Sir Alex Ferguson as manager, have already had two bids for the Spanish international rejected by La Liga champions.

‘Manchester United were interested in the player, but they have also understood our stance that we don’t want to sell him,’ the former Spain goalkeeper was quoted as saying by Barcelona based daily Sport.  ‘They have given up on signing him.’ His opportunities in Barca’s midfield have been limited by the presence of international teammates Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquets, while his role lying behind the main striker is occupied by four-time world player of the year Lionel Messi.

However, with the sale of Thiago Alcantara to Bayern Munich and the 33-year-old Xavi expected to play fewer games this season, Zubizarreta insisted Fabregas will be a key part of the squad. ‘Cesc is an extraordinary player, we are counting on him. He has vision, he helps in defence, he is our number four and we are not going to sell him.’   Fabregas scored twice on his first appearance of the season against Santos.