Manchester United transfer news: Barcelona warn potential suitors that sale of Cesc Fabregas 'is totally ruled out'

Barcalone vice-president Josep Bartomeu has rubbished claims that the midfielder will be sold and says he is not for sale

Cesc Fabregas (GETTY IMAGES)

Barcelona have put the brakes on Manchester United’s move for Cesc Fabregas after vice-president Josep Bartomeu claimed that the move will not happen under any circumstances.

David Moyes had said earlier today that United’s chief executive Ed Woodward is dealing with the clubs transfer plans, and that he will hope to know more in the next few days.

But Barcelona have acted quickly to dismiss any speculation that Fabregas could leave the Nou Camp ahead of the new season.

Speaking to Spanish daily newspaper Sport, Bartomeu said: “Barcelona can assure [fans] we won’t listen to any offers for Cesc (Fabregas). It is totally ruled out, he's not for sale.”

The message is a warning to United, who have already lodged a £26m bid for Fabregas, and the news will not be taken well by fans, who are quickly becoming frustrated with the club’s lack of movement in the transfer market.

Moyes had said: “The chief exec has been dealing with it just now and I am in contact with him.

“I'll hopefully know a little more in the next day or so. I may have a bit more information in the next day or so about how it's going.

“As far as players we’re looking to bring in, we're trying very hard to make some additions to the squad.

“Hopefully there'll be some good news in the not too distant future.”

The move had seemed unlikely from the start, with Fabregas expressing his desire to stay with the La Liga champions, though United feel they can tempt the former Arsenal captain away with the promise of regular first-team football – something he has struggled to get with Andres Iniesta and Xavi in the side.

Arsenal also have a clause in his contract that allows them to discuss a move with the player if they make a £25m bid, though they have failed to show significant interest in him so far this summer.