Wenger snubs Barca's offer of Fab talks - Exclusive

Arsene Wenger last night snubbed Barcelona’s attempts to set up a World Cup summit over Cesc Fabregas.

Barcelona president Sandro Rosell flew into South Africa hoping to meet with Wenger and Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis before last night’s World Cup final.

But Mirror Sport can reveal that Wenger and Gazidis refused to meet with Barcelona this weekend - and have reiterated their message that Fabregas is not for sale at any price.

It is a hammer blow to Barcelona’s attempts to sign Fabregas and Arsenal will not back down on the issue, having already turned down an offer of £30m.

Wenger and Gazidis are making the issue a point of principle and, even though Barcelona are likely to make an increased offer of up to £40m, they will find that Arsenal will not enter into discussions let alone sell.

Barcelona’s attempts to unsettle Fabregas have infuriated Arsenal and they are digging in their heels as they stick to their guns over their 23-year-old captain.

Fabregas told Wenger face-to-face that he wants to join Barca and expected that to help push through his dream move to the Nou Camp.

But Arsenal have remained defiant and their strong stand has now left Fabregas facing up to the prospect of another season at the Emirates.

Arsenal insist Fabregas has five years left on his current deal, he extended his contract and therefore the club do not have to sell.

Fabregas, who has avoided talking openly and publicly about the transfer saga, even hinted last week that he may still be at Arsenal next season.

That represents a U-turn on his part and possibly even backtracking to appease the Arsenal fans after realising Wenger is determined not to sell him this summer.