Manchester United Transfer News: Latest on Red Devils' Pursuit of Cesc Fabregas

David Moyes is determined to add a marquee name at Old Trafford before the summer is over.

The first-year Manchester United boss has his sights set on Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas, and according to ESPN's Kevin Palmer, United are set to launch a third bid for the Spanish star.

The latest from Sky Sports sources on Wednesday has Fabregas contemplating his future with Barcelona. The report adds that Barca could consider an offer in the £35 million range but would leave the decision to stay or go up to Fabregas.

But there's also a strong chance that the club continues to have its bids rejected by the Spanish giant, who has made it clear over recent days and weeks that Fabregas is not for sale this offseason. The Red Devils are "wasting their time," according to Barca defender Gerard Pique via Palmer.

And according to a recent statement made by Barcelona vice president Josep Maria Bartomeu last week via Sky Sports, the club's stance on the 26-year-old Spaniard hasn't changed:

"Barcelona can assure you we will not entertain any offers for Cesc. It is totally ruled out, he's not for sale."

But don't expect Moyes and United to slow down their pursuit of the elite midfielder anytime soon. After having their initial offer of £25 million turned down, United returned with another bid in the £30 million range that featured add-ons, according to Sky Sports.

Now, Palmer writes that the club is believed to be preparing a third bid for Fabregas, one likely in the range of £35 million. 

Although Barca have been consistent in their response to the English Premier League champions, you have to credit United's persistence. After all, acquiring Fabregas would provide Moyes' squad with a huge boost in midfield. Plus, several of the team's players have made it clear that they like what the former Arsenal star brings to the table, including former teammate Robin van Persie.

According to Sky Sports, last year's Premier League-leading goalscorer would not only welcome a deal for the Spaniard, but he would also love to play alongside his former Gunners teammate next season, calling Fabregas a "great player." 

United goalkeeper David de Gea also had high praise for the Barcelona man: "He is a great player, very skillful, knows how to win things and you always want those type of players in your team," via Sky Sports.

The bottom line is simple yet complicated, though. The consensus at Old Trafford seems to be that Cesc Fabregas is an excellent player who would make a great addition this summer. But at the same time, the general feeling in Barcelona is that Fabregas isn't going anywhere anytime soon.

It could all depend on whose patience runs out first.

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