Barcelona plan 'respectful' pursuit of Fabregas

Fabregas has said he wishes to move (GETTY IMAGES)

Barcelona technical secretary Txiki Begiristain insists the Catalan club will be "respectful" to Arsenal in their pursuit of Cesc Fabregas.

After signing Valencia striker David Villa this week, Barca are ready to step up their bid for the Gunners captain before president Joan Laporta's term finishes this summer.

Fabregas revealed last week at a promotional event in Barcelona that he would like to return to the club he left as a youngster to move to England.

Barca have welcomed Fabregas' interest but seem to be taking a softly-softly approach where Arsenal are concerned.

Begiristain told the club's website, fcbarcelona.cat: "The player has shown his will to come to Barca, but we will not do anything until Arsenal want to negotiate.

"We have the will of the player to come to Barcelona, but what we won't do is start to negotiate without Arsenal until an agreement is reached.

"Cesc has a contract with his club and we will be very respectful."

Begiristain is quoted on Marca's website as saying Barca are awaiting a response from Arsenal.

"As he has the will to return, we contacted Arsenal to ask them if they are ready to negotiate. We are waiting for an answer."