Do Arsene Wenger Comments Point to an Arsenal Return for Cesc Fabregas?

Arsenal fans will never give up on the dream of seeing Cesc Fabregas return to the Emirates Stadium.

Fabregas' career seems destined to be played out as a tug-of-war between Arsenal and Barcelona. It is a matter of the heart.

Barcelona is Fabregas' hometown. It's where he was born and will always call home.

However, North London is where he became a man. It's where he learnt his sporting trade and developed his characteristic playing style.

It's also where he forged a huge emotional bond with the Arsenal fans, who will never stop praying for the return of their very own prodigal son.

This weekend, Arsene Wenger gave the Arsenal supporters fuel for their hopes. At a press conference after the Emirates Cup, Wenger told Sky Sports:

"

What I know is that Fabregas will stay on more year, at least, in Barcelona. That's the information I have.

If that changes, I don't know. But that's what I've been told.

"

Wenger's statement immediately begs the question: Who told him this information? We can only speculate, but it could well have been Fabregas or one of his representatives. That would mean that a dialogue still exists between the manager and his former protege.

Such news would be a huge relief to Arsenal fans. For much of the summer, their dream of seeing Fabregas return to the Premier League has threatened to become a nightmare, as Manchester United have attempted to snare the Catalan midfielder. According to the BBC, Fabregas remains United's No. 1 target.

Having watched Robin van Persie defect to Old Trafford, the pain of seeing Fabregas do the same would be unbearable for Arsenal fans.

If Fabregas does return to English shores, Arsenal must make sure they are in pole position to welcome him home.

There is plenty in their favour. According to Arsene Wenger, Arsenal have a clause in Fabregas' contract which entitles them to first refusal on the Spanish international in the event of him leaving Barcelona.

They will also hope that they are able to tug on Cesc's heart-strings. His decision to leave Arsenal for Barcelona was a hugely emotional one. Should he opt to leave Barcelona, Arsenal fans will hope his heart speaks loudest once again.

However, in order to make themselves attractive to Fabregas, Arsenal must show they mean business. Signings and silverware would help convince him that returning to London would not be a backwards step.

Arsene Wenger seems convinced that Fabregas is not going anywhere soon. However, a bidding war could be sparked for his services next summer.

Arsenal need to have a good 2013/14 season to convince Fabregas they are a viable option for his next career move. Otherwise, they run the risk of losing another treasured player to a rival club. 

James McNicholas is Bleacher Report's lead Arsenal correspondent and will be following the club from a London base throughout the 2013-14 season. Follow him on Twitter here.