Barcelona go official denying pursuit of Arsenal ace Cesc

Barcelona deny they've attempted to strike terms with Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas.

Spanish radio reports on Wednesday morning claimed that the star midfielder had agreed a deal to join the reigning European champions this summer.

But the Catalan giants have moved swiftly to deny those reports, and say they've 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."