Laporta politely implied that the European champions won't back down on their pursuit to Fabregas, much to the annoyance of Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger.

"I apologize if I bothered Mr. Wenger, because I respect him very highly and the job he is doing," Laporta told reporters.

"But he knows perfectly that the case of Cesc Fabregas is special.

"He is a Catalan player from our youth team and it is not a secret that we love this player."

Fabregas, 22, emerged through Barca's youth ranks some six years ago, but the Catalans left him to join Arsenal for free.

The Spain schemer developed to become one of the most decent midfielders in the world under the management of Wenger.