Barcelona to Bid $68m for Van Persie and Fabregas?

Barcelona might already have one of the strongest squads in Europe, but according to reports today, they are looking to strengthen it even more in the summer.

The Daily Star assures that the Catalan club are preparing a bid for not just one Arsenal player this summer, but two.

The two names in question are Robin Van Persie and Cesc Fabregas, and apparently the size of the bid is €50 million ($68 million).

The news has spread like wildfire since the report, and with Fabregas known to be a target of Barcelona's, it would be no surprise to see them move for him.

The problem for Arsenal this season is mainly the competition in the Premier League from Aston Villa, who look like they could usurp them for fourth spot.

If this happens, and the north London club fail to get a Champions League place, then there could well be a few players looking at the exit door.

Add to that the fact that they appear on the brink of signing Russian playmaker Andrei Arshavin, and a move for Fabregas, at least, seems more feasible.

Van Persie joined Arsenal back in 2004 from Dutch side Feyenoord, whilst Fabregas came to England from Barcelona back in 2003.

It is no secret that Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger would be extremely reluctant to sell either of the players, both of whom are key in the team, but if the price is right, he might not have a choice.

--James Walker-Roberts, Goal.com