Barcelona expect Fabregas to make switch

(GETTY IMAGES)

Barcelona remain keen to sign Premier League stars Cesc Fabregas and Robinho, according to the La Liga club's sporting director Txiki Beguiristain.

Fabregas remains a target for the Spanish and European champions and the Arsenal skipper continues to be linked with a return to his first club each transfer window.

But Beguiristain has also now revealed his club's interest in Manchester City's Robinho.

The British record £32m Brazilian has previously played in Spain for Barca's bitter rivals Real Madrid.

Speaking about Fabregas, Beguiristain said: "Cesc is a player who has the Barca profile.

"He was born suckling upon the teat of the football (we play) here. One day he will end up playing at the Camp Nou. I am sure of it."

On the subject of Robinho, he added: "He is a very interesting footballer and he can play in the Champions League.

"There are possibilities for strengthening. We will be very alert to see if an interesting option comes up.

"In January it is the African Nations Cup. We are going to see if some of our defenders can play in midfield. It is an option. Depending on that we could look for a forward."

Barcelona also revealed their continued interest in Franck Ribery.

Begiristain observed Barcelona's interest in the Frenchman over the summer: "We have a great relationship with Bayern Munich and eventually we told them we were interested in signing Ribery. Twice we have offered money for him and both times we were told he was not for sale. And it is true, because they said the same thing to Chelsea and Real Madrid.

"If Bayern Munich puts Ribery on the market, we'll know first. Another thing is the price, of course."