Cesc Fabregas to leave Barcelona: Manchester United and Arsenal possible options for Spain international

The 27-year-old is reportedly set to leave the Nou Camp this summer with a return to the Premier League his preferred destination

Cesc Fabregas pictured with the Spain squad (GETTY IMAGES)

Cesc Fabregas is set to leave Barcelona this summer, with a return to the Premier League the most likely option, Sky Sports News are reporting.

The 27-year-old former Arsenal player has been consistently linked with a return to England ever since leaving for the Nou Camp in 2011. It now appears that a move will finally come to fruition but his precise destination is far from certain.

Barcelona are understood to be prepared to let him leave after deciding the Spain international does not feature prominently in their plans for next season.

Manchester United are likely to be the front-runners having made a failed attempt to sign him last summer. David de Gea revealed earlier this week that he had been trying to persuade Fabregas to join him at Old Trafford and with Louis van Gaal being handed funds to overhaul the squad, Fabregas would make a stellar addition to his midfield.

Louis van Gaal may seek to make Fabregas one of his first signings as Manchester United manager (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester City will also be keen on signing such a world class talent whilst a return to former club Arsenal cannot be ruled out. Arsene Wenger has a habit of signing former players, with Mathieu Flamini, Sol Campbell, Thierry Henry and Jens Lehmann all returning for second spells at the club. The Gunners are also understood to have first option on the player they reluctantly let leave. Chelsea may also not be able to ignore the situation.

Reports suggest Fabregas has a £30m release clause.