Barcelona manager Gerardo Martino has admitted Cesc Fabregas holds his future in his own hands, with the former Arsenal star attracting interest from his former club as well as Manchester United.

Speaking after his sides 8-0 demolition of Santos, where Fabregas scored twice and looked his scintillating best during a second half appearance.

Decision down to Cesc

Martino said that although he expects the midfielder to stay, the decision is ultimately down to him.

“I would prefer him to stay with us and I dare say he will, but it’s his decision,” said Barcelona’s new coach.

“He is one of the best players in the squad. I think he will stay. But there’s a part that he has to decide.

“Cesc will decide the situation, but it has not occurred to me that I won’t be able to count on him.”

The Red Devils have had two bids rejected already this summer, believed to £25 million and £30 million but Arsenal apparently hold an advantage against their league rivals.

Clause in Arsenal’s favour

It isn’t understood whether Fabregas is open to a move but with a clause in the Spaniards contract, any move away from the Camp Nou to a club other than Arsenal would be difficult.

The Gunners inserted a clause that gives them first refusal on Cesc if the Catalan giants accept an offer from a rival club.

Essentially, Barca could accept a £50 million offer for the 26-year-old and still be forced to sell their midfielder to Arsenal for the price they paid to bring him to Barcelona, although Fabregas would have to agree to a move.

Money owed by Barca

Barcelona owe Arsenal money for the Alex Song deal which would reduce any fee in a deal to bring Fabregas ‘home’.

Whether we could see the return of our former hero is hard to say. The general consensus seems to be that he wants to stay at the Camp Nou for at least one more season.

What shouldn’t be ruled out is for Fabregas to return to the Emirates in his next transfer as with the clause mentioned above in his contract, Arsenal hold all the cards.

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