Barcelona vice-president Rafael Yuste has confirmed that they are close to signing David Villa and are hopeful of landing Cesc Fabregas.
The newly-crowned Primera Liga champions are keen on signing prolific striker Villa and Arsenal skipper Fabregas as they look to strengthen their squad for next season.
Yuste admits the two deals are at different stages with Villa close to making a move, but Arsenal are desperate to keep hold of the talismanic Fabregas.
“Negotiations are progressing well especially in the case of Villa,” Yuste told Catalonian radio station Ona FM.
“The situation with Cesc is different because even if you have the will of the player it is very important to talk to his club and, if you can, find an agreement.
“But what makes it easier is that both players want to come to Barca.”
Fabregas revealed last week that he wants his future sorted before he goes to the World Cup with Barca hoping they can persuade Arsenal into selling the midfielder.
It has been suggested Yaya Toure could be used as a makeweight in a deal and the Ivorian’s agent Dimitri Seluk admitted his client has grown frustrated at the limited playing time he has received under Pep Guardiola.
“Toure wants to play every game,” said Seluk. “It is likely that Toure will not remain at Barcelona.
“He is happy there, it is a great club but he does not want to spend his time on the bench.”
He added, however: “There is a one in a thousand chance that Toure will be involved in the move for Cesc with Arsenal.”
