Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas isn't just becoming a pawn in Barcelona's election year.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, says Sport, also remains determined to bring the midfielder back to Spain in the summer.

Joan Laporta, the outgoing Barca president, is seeking a public commitment from Cesc before the end of the season to mark a crowning moment as his reign comes to an end. However, he will face stiff competition from Perez, who has put aside £70 million to convince Arsenal to sell.

A third party in the battle is Sandro Rosell, who will be competing for the Barca presidency next year. He has already had contact with Cesc and his minders about the player's intentions and has asaked to be kept-up-speed on developments.

For their part, Arsenal insists they do not want to sell - and have no need to.