Manchester United’s hopes of singing Cesc Fabregas from Barcelona have been boosted by new Barcelona manager Gerardo Martino admitting the midfielder is free to leave the Camp Nou if he wishes.

Martino told the official club website he hopes the midfielder will remain at the club, but ultimately the decision on that is up to Fabregas.

United have reportedly had bids of €28m and €35m rejected by the Catalan club and Martino said that, although the club will not prevent him moving, he believes Fabregas will reject any opportunity to join Manchester United.

"I would prefer him to stay with us and I dare say he will, but it's his decision," Martino said.

"He is one of the best players in the squad. I think he will stay. But there's a part that he has to decide.

"Cesc will decide the situation, but it has not occurred to me that I won't be able to count on him."