Gunners could pass up potential Fabregas deal

Arsenal’s depth of creative midfielders could see the Premier League club pass up on their buy-back option for former captain Cesc Fabregas.

While there remains a strong emotional bond with the Spain midfielder, who left for Barcelona in a £35 million deal three years ago, manager Arsene Wenger may yet decide against exercising first option to bring the 27-year-old back to the Emirates Stadium.

Spain international Fabregas is said to be surplus to requirements at the Nou Camp this summer, and as part of the deal which saw him return to his boyhood club in 2011, Arsenal would head any potential suitors.

Should Arsenal not decide to take up their option, then Fabregas — said to prefer a return to the club he joined as a raw 16-year-old — would likely trigger renewed interest from both Chelsea and Manchester United.

Chief executive Ivan Gazidis told a supporters’ group the club were “deep in conversations already” with their chief targets.

A right-back will be needed to replace contract-rebel Bacary Sagna, who seems destined for a lucrative free-transfer to Manchester City having turned down Arsenal’s improved offers.

Toulouse right-back Serge Aurier had been touted as a potential replacement, but it is understood the Ivory Coast defender is not high on Wenger’s wanted list.

Goalkeeping cover is also needed after Lukasz Fabianski left for Swansea, and Norwich’s John Ruddy, who missed out on England’s World Cup squad, is a reported target following the Norfolk club’s relegation.

Arsenal are also determined to land a proven forward to support France international Olivier Giroud.