Arsenal Transfer News: Cesc Fabregas Rules Out Premier League Return
BBC. The 26-year old, who began his professional career as a Barcelona youth player, re-joined the Catalans in 2011 following eight years in North London. As part of the deal, the Gunners were given the option of first refusal should the Spanish champions ever sell the player, which has led to speculation the midfielder could be set for a return to England. Manchester United were also reportedly interested but Fabregas stated:
"I've always said that I'm happy at Barca. Whoever says that I'm leaving doesn't know me and has never spoken with me. "If someone says I don't want to play at Barca, it's completely absurd."Fabregas joined Barcelona as a 10-year old but joined Arsenal when he turned 16. He made 303 appearances for the Gunners and became the club's youngest player when he lined up against Rotherham United aged 16 years and 177 days in a League Cup match in October 2003. On 24 November 2008, he succeeded William Gallas as the club's captain. One of Arsenal's most creative players, he provided 100 assists during his stay, and scored 57 goals. Between 200607 and 201011, he created the most chances in the top-division leagues of England, Spain, Italy, Germany and France. He returned to Barcelona for 29 million in 2011, with a further 5 million to be added on in variables. He has since scored 29 goals and created 32 assists for his new club.