Manchester United Transfer Rumours: Red Devils Open Talks for Cesc Fabregas

Manchester United opened the lines of communication with Barcelona as the Premier League champions eye a move for former Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas, according to Miguel Delaney of ESPN.

The report states new United manager David Moyes is making plans to immediately upgrade the midfield. Fabregas has emerged as his top target, but the Spanish international remains uncertain about a potential move away from Camp Nou.

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Fabregas is understood to be wavering over whether he wants a move. Although there is a willingness on both parts to eventually make his stay at Camp Nou work as a consequence of the obvious emotional connection between the 26-year-old and the Catalans, United are hoping to act on that doubt. It is felt at Old Trafford that a figure of over £25 million may tempt Barcelona.

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Marouane Fellaini, who played under Moyes at Everton, PSV Eindhoven's Kevin Strootman and Fabregas' Barcelona teammate, Thiago Alcantara, are also mentioned as options in the report. However, Fabregas is currently viewed as the top priority.   

Another potential hurdle is the apparent right of first refusal given to Arsenal when they sold the midfielder to Barcelona two summers ago. United sources told ESPN they don't believe it will become an issue should the process reach that stage.

Fabregas remains one of the most talented central midfielders in Europe. That said, he struggled to make the same type of consistent impact with Barcelona due to the club's incredible midfield depth, which is highlighted by Andres Iniesta and Xavi.

A move to United, where he would likely play a far more prominent attacking role behind Robin van Persie, would suit him better. Moyes will probably use that point as a way to convince Fabregas to make the move should a fee be agreed to with his current club.

The 26-year-old longtime Arsenal star made a name for himself in the Premier League. He displayed quintessential playmaking ability, which made him seem like a perfect fit for Barca, and he still could be if there's no transfer and he's used more actively.

That prior EPL experience would make his possible transition to United much easier. At the same time, he would provide a massive boost to the Red Devils' chances of defending their title next season, which will be the first in nearly three decades without Sir Alex Ferguson in charge.

Moyes is out to show United aren't going to miss a beat with him in charge. Adding a player of Fabregas' caliber early in the transfer period is exactly the type of statement move he needs to make.

It sounds like the wheels are in motion to do exactly that.