Arsenal FC: Will Xavi Comments Reignite Cesc Fabregas Barcelona Transfer Flame?

For the second time this month, Barcelona midfielder Xavi has offered up comments regarding the potential transfer of Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas, much to the continued irritation of Arsene Wenger.

Earlier in July, Xavi made headlines by suggesting that Fabregas is "suffering" at Arsenal, and that a move to Barcelona is "what he wants most and he's done all he can to come, he wants Arsenal to let him leave.''

The comments angered Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, who immediately called Xavi out by publicly stating, "It's disrespectful and it's not the first time that Xavi has been disrespectful to Arsenal."

"I believe a mutual respect between the clubs should stop this kind of comment," Wenger explained.

The objections prompted an apology from Xavi for the perceived disrespect, but they did not put an end to Xavi's appeals to Fabregas to continue pushing for a move.

In statements printed today in the German newspaper Suddeutschzeitung, Xavi reiterated of Fabregas, "I hope he comes." He added, "I hope the saga ends."

"Cesc is only 24," said the 31-year-old Spanish International, who has previously stated his desires to see Fabregas take his place when he retires from Barcelona. "His arrival would ensure the current cycle of Barca continues to work."

After three successive summers of rumors regarding a transfer of Fabregas to Barcelona, it appears that the several-year saga is reaching a climax, with Barcelona players seemingly lining up to offer their opinions and urge a move.

Given Fabregas' consistent status on the Spanish national squad, the Gunners captain has accumulated many close friends at Barcelona who are more than capable of utilizing that friendship to add weight to their role in his decision-making process. Still, it seems that his decision is made up, and has been for a rather long time.

The biggest question is whether or not Xavi and other outspoken players at Barcelona can convince Fabregas to continue attempting to force a move. For Gunners fans who shudder at the idea of losing their captain, the question is whether or not Wenger can put a stop to it for the long duration of another transfer season.