The latest transfer gossip, rumours and damned lies

The latest gossip from the transfer rumour mill is likely to make uncomfortable reading for a certain brainy Frenchman…

Cesc Fabregas and Robin van Persie to Barcelona

The Daily Star claim that the La Liga leaders are planning to “rip the heart out of Arsenal” with a £45m bid for their captain and resident William Gallas irritant. Fabregas has been a long term target for the Spaniards, who also feel that RvP “has matured and in ready for the move”.

The Spoiler truth-o-meter: Fabregas has already said he will make a decision on his future at the end of the season, and both may be tempted by the prospect of league silverware at Barca. Obviously, Wenger will do absolutely everything to keep this pair, but he was powerless to stop delicate little flower Alex Hleb from moving there in the summer.

No one going to Manchester City
Sky Sports are reporting that Mark Hughes has had a “substantial and improved bid” (£12m+ according to some sources) for Roque Santa Cruz rejected. West Ham have also rejected a City bid for Scott Parker and Craig Bellamy.

The Spoiler truth-o-meter: Blackburn’s attempts to keep their star striker