Wenger firm on Fabregas stance

Arsene Wenger has once again insisted that Cesc Fabregas will remain at Arsenal (7/1 outright Premier League winners) next season, despite interest from Barcelona.

The saga involving the Gunners skipper has rumbled on throughout the summer with no end in sight, as the north London club have stood firm on their pledge not to sell the playmaker.

Barca have had one bid of £30million rejected by the English club but haven't given up hope of signing Fabregas, who is said to be keen on a move back to the club he started his career at.

The 23-year-old admitted earlier this week that he was torn over where his future lies.

However, Wenger has ruled out the possibility of his talisman leaving, claiming he expects the World Cup winner to play a big part in the Gunners' (4/6 top four finish) title ambitions.

"I have always said that Cesc Fabregas will be our captain next year and that we want to keep him," Wenger told Sky Sports.

"He's now at an age, 23 years old, he's just won the World Cup and I believe he will grow in authority again next season. The biggest achievement for him is to help us win the championship."