Barcelona reveal ‘open talks’ with Real target Villa

BARCELONA have admitted holding “open talks” with Valencia over Spain striker David Villa.

Villa was thought to be close to leaving cash-strapped Valencia for Real Madrid but the Primera Division champions have now confirmed their interest in the 27-year-old.

Barca’s vice-president Rafael Yuste said: “There are many players who are interested in coming to play at Barcelona and I think that people have to know this. The talks (over Villa) are absolutely open.”

It is thought Villa himself will make the final decision. However, that is clouded by his involvement in the Confederations Cup in South Africa.

Meanwhile Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas has underlined his happiness at Arsenal but has conceded a phonecall from Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola could change his mind.

Fabregas, who grew up idolising Barca’s Champions League winning boss, admits being made Gunners captain last season added to the affinity he has for Arsene Wenger’s side.

The lure of a return to his former club remains, however, with Fabregas confessing that he would find it difficult to turn down Guardiola.

Fabregas said: “Clearly, it (an offer from Barcelona) would be special, but I also have to make clear that Arsenal made me captain midway through the season and therefore I have an added responsibility.

“It would make me happy to lift a title as Gunners captain.’’

Asked what it would mean if he received a call directly from Guardiola, Fabregas was honest in his answer.

The 22-year-old insisted he has not held any talks with Wenger nor does he feel the need to consult the Frenchman about his future at the club.

He added: “He hasn’t said anything to me and he doesn’t have reason to do it because there has been nothing new. I am loving being at Arsenal.

“If we had to do it (discuss his future), his door would be open and there wouldn’t be a problem.”

On Guardiola Fabregas said: “Pep has always been my idol. I have always played in his position and wear the number four like him.

“He was my hero when I was young and the one I have tried to be like.

“I tried to imitate what he did as a player and now as a coach he is showing how good he is. He is someone that will always be important in my life.’’

Fabregas has now set his sights on ending Arsenal’s long-running trophy drought, which stretches back to success in the 2005 FA Cup.

“I want to win trophies,’’ he added. “When a player ends his career he wants to be able to look back and feel that he was an important player and to have some medals.”