LONDON — Spanish giant Real Madrid could lodge a rival bid for Arsenal captain and long-term Barcelona target Cesc Fabregas, Sky Sports reported Friday.
The Spanish midfielder has been linked with a return to his homeland for some time, having progressed through the youth ranks at Barca before joining the Gunners at the start of his senior career.
A move back to Camp Nou had appeared the most likely scenario if Arsenal did decide to let the 24-year-old leave, but the two clubs have never been able to agree on a fee.
Reports surfaced last week that Barcelona had been in contact but club president Sandro Rosell stated that he would not overpay for Fabregas and actually valued the player as cheaper than 12 months ago.
It is understood that Real values the player at $72.6 million (€50 million), which is far closer to Arsenal’s asking price than Barcelona have reached.
Fabregas is believed to be a favorite of the board at Real and head coach Jose Mourinho, who wields substantial power over transfers, is also an admirer.
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