Manchester United Admit Defeat in Pursuit of Number One Transfer Target

Manchester United hopes of signing Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas are over after the Spanish international confirmed his desire to remain at the Nou Camp.

The Catalans have rejected two bids for Fabregas who joined Barcelona from Arsenal in the summer of 2011.

Manager David Moyes had made United's pursuit of Fabregas public while executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward left the club's pre-season tour last month as their interest began to swell.

But the Premier League champions will have to look elsewhere this summer for transfer targets after Fabregas confirmed his future lies at Barcelona.

"My dream is to play here," Fabregas said. "I've never thought about leaving. I am at the best club.

"I've not thought of anything but continuing at Barca. It cost me a lot to return and I want to be a success here.

"When an important team makes two offers for you, it's flattering, but I have never spoken to anyone from United. I haven't spoken to another club in two years."

"Things have been made up," the ex-Arsenal captain added.

"I have had messages from (president Sandro) Rosell, (vice-president Josep Maria) Bartomeu, and (former coach) Tito (Vilanova). I have spoken with Tata (new boss Gerardo Martino).

"I have felt wanted at all times. I have never had a problem. And it isn't true that I have asked for a new contract either.

"I was always relaxed. I did not have to clear up anything because in my head I was only going to stay at Barca."

United have made the curious decision to respond to Fabregas' decision to stay at Barcelona, after a summer long pursuit of the 26 year old, and will now have be forced to turn their attention to other targets.

"We appreciate Cesc is a contracted player at Barcelona and completely respect everything Cesc has said today," a United statement read.

Fabregas' rejection represents another disappointment for United in the summer transfer window which has seen just one addition in the former of Uruguay youngster Guillermo Varela.