Barca's Cesc hopes dashed

World Cup winner Fabregas has again been linked with Barcelona, the club he left in 2003 at the age of 16, but the two clubs have been unable to agree a price for the midfielder.

The Catalan club believe that the 24-year old’s valuation is less now than at the end of last season, and have had a bid in the region of €32 million (£28m) turned down as Arsenal are still holding out for a reported €40m (£36m).

French international Samir Nasri has also been linked with a move away from Arsenal as he has only 12 months left on his current contract at the North London club. The midfielder, who enjoyed his finest season in an Arsenal shirt last year, has reportedly been targeted by Manchester United and Manchester City.

However, Wenger is confident that both players will remain and be in the side for the first match of the season away at Newcastle.

The Frenchman said: “Cesc loves the club and hopefully we will manage. We know that this story for Barcelona has gone on for years now, we have to close that and focus on the season, hopefully with Cesc Fabregas."

And asked whether he thinks Nasri will remain at the club and possibly sign an extension on his contract, Wenger replied: “Will he be at the club next season? I say yes. The second part (of the question) - will he sign a new contract? I hope yes, but I am not the only one to decide.”