Guardiola assures Fabregas of deal

The Catalan radio station RAC1 reported yesterday that Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola had assured Cesc Fàbregas that, despite delays, the club still intend to bring him back to Barcelona this summer. Arsenal are increasingly frustrated that Barcelona, who are hopeful that a third bid of £35m will be enough, are not matching their £40m valuation.

Arsenal have told them they will not negotiate on Fàbregas' transfer after the end of this month. Barcelona midfielder Xavi, meanwhile, has defended himself after Arsène Wenger said he had been "very disrespectful" for suggesting Fàbregas was suffering as he waits to resolve his future. "It seems absurd to me," Xavi said. "I was only acting in the interest of Cesc and of Barça."