---
title: "Real deal hammer blow in ‘Operation Cesc’"
canonical: "https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/real-deal-hammer-blow-in-operation-cesc/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Oli Major"
section: "Arsenal Football Club"
published: "2010-01-08T13:58:05Z"
modified: "2010-01-08T13:58:05Z"
---

# Real deal hammer blow in ‘Operation Cesc’

![Fabregas](https://cdn.footballtransfertavern.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/Fabregas-150x150.jpg)Real Madrid have joined the chase for Arsenal’s key man Cesc Fabregas, dealing a hammer blow to bitter rivals Barcelona. The Catalan club have been the subject of constant rumours regarding Fabregas however; the Galactico’s have entered the race in what they are calling ‘Operation Cesc’.

Real President Florentino Perez and his director Jorge Valdano have discussed a possible £43 million bid for the Spanish ace who is a firm favourite at the Emirates. Arsenal are willing to hang onto their captain but are believed to be tempted a bid that would include the Argentinean ace Gonzalo Higuain.

Barca President Joan Laporta has previously vowed to *“fight for the kid”* who began his career with the club and the 2009 European Champions are expected to counter Real’s efforts with a straight £40 million bid or a deal involving £30 million plus the unsettled Yaya Toure.

The Arsenal midfielder insists he is happy with the north London side yet has been increasingly linked with a move to Spain and now Real have joined the chase for his signature, a move back to his homeland could seem tempting.

\[Is there any substance to this and should this rumour **Fly or Die?**\]

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