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Barcelona to keep trio

Cape Town - Barcelona president says the club will not let Cesc Fabregas, Javier Mascherano or Xavi leave this summer.

Rumours have been circulating in Spain that Fabregas is once again figuring prominently on the transfer wish list of English duo, Arsenal and Manchester United.

The Red Devils who so publicly pursued the former Arsenal midfielder for long periods in 2013 have again been linked with the Spanish international. While Arsenal reportedly have an option to buy-back Fabregas should he be made available for transfer.

Fabregas has offered no indication that he is looking to secure a return to English football any time soon, and Barca maintain that he remains an important figure in their plans.

According to Teamtalk, President Josep Maria Bartomeu told Onda Cero: "We don't want to sell players.

"Barca do not want to sell Fabregas or any other players that may appear to be on the market."

Among those also generating plenty of speculation ahead of the re-opening of the transfer window are versatile Argentine Mascherano and long-serving playmaker Xavi.

"Mascherano is regarded as a key player on the field and so he stays at Barca" said Bartomeu.

When quizzed on Xavi, Bartomeu said "Xavi's contract ends in 2016 and he has two more years with the club. Coaches rely on experience for the future, and he has been at the club for 16 years."

Barcelona's stance on Fabregas may be due the unavailability of Koke. Bartomeu does not expect the talented 22-year-old to become available.

The Atletico Madrid midfielder has impressed this season and is said to be monitored by several top European clubs but Bartomeu does not expect the talented 22-year-old to become available, thus retaining Fabregas is vitally important to Barcelona.

Barcelona may be looking to secure the signature of  Paris St Germain defender Marquinhos.

"The club is looking for a successor to Carles Puyol," said the Barcelona president.

"There was a Barca before Puyol and there will be one after. Marquinhos is a good player but we are in talks with various teams."

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