• Premier League

Fabregas officially confirmed as a Barcelona player

ESPN staff
August 15, 2011
Former Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas has returned to boyhood club Barcelona © PA Photos
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Cesc Fabregas' long-awaited return to Barcelona is now finally official after the player passed a medical and signed a five-year deal on Monday.

The former Arsenal skipper arrived in Barcelona early on Monday morning, flanked by security as he immediately headed for the first of two medical examinations. Just over four hours later the Spanish and European champions confirmed Fabregas' transfer, eight years after he left the club as a 16-year-old.

Barcelona's first-team doctor Ricard Pruna said: "All the tests taken have been satisfactory."

Barca president Sandro Rosell had earlier revealed the details of the transfer, rubbishing reports that they had paid €40 million. According to Rosell, Arsenal will only receive an initial €29 million (£25 million), supported by success-based add-ons.

"It is not €40 million," Rosell said. "Barca will pay €29 million and we are very happy, because we said we would not pay more than €30 million and we succeeded. On top of that, the variables are €5 million plus five others."

Fabregas will wear his favoured No. 4 jersey at Camp Nou, the number worn by new boss Pep Guardiola. The Spain international has also reportedly been handed a €200 million buy-out clause.

"To get the No. 4 shirt is very special," said Fabregas. "I know there has been a debate about whether Thiago [Alcantara] should have it but I'm very pleased to be able to wear the No. 4."

He leaves behind an Arsenal side that benefited from over 300 appearances by the 24-year-old, scoring 57 goals. However, Fabregas does not depart with a trophy haul to match his obvious talent, only playing his part in an FA Cup triumph that remains Arsenal's most recent piece of silverware.

"I waited many days, months and years for this moment," Fabregas told the Barcelona fans. "I return home after eight years. I know I disappointed many of you when I left, but I'm back for the challenge of my life. I hope to leave good memories."

Arsenal, meanwhile, continue to be linked to Shakhtar Donetsk's Brazilian creator Jadson. Arsene Wenger played down reports over the weekend, but Shakhtar's manager claims the decision rests entirely with the player.

There also remains speculation over the future of Samir Nasri, seen by many as the natural replacement for Fabregas in the heart of the Arsenal midfield, but the France international was all smiles as he attended training on Monday.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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