Laporta - Cesc a special case

Fabregas came through the youth system at Barcelona before leaving the Catalan giants to join Arsenal as a 16-year-old six years ago.

He has gone on to establish himself as one of world football's best midfielders, but has regularly been linked with a return to Spain.

Real Madrid have previously shown an interest, while Barca have made no secret of their wish to see the 22-year-old come back to Camp Nou.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger recently criticised the political nature of Spanish clubs and believes it can have a destabilising effect on players.

Laporta has apologised if Wenger has been upset by Barca's interest, but explained why he is so keen to see Fabregas return to the club.

"I apologise if I bothered Mr Wenger, because I respect him very highly and the job he is doing," said Laporta..

"But he knows perfectly that the case of Cesc Fabregas is special.

"He is a Catalan player from our youth team and it is not a secret that we love this player."