Fabragas is staying with Arsenal

So after a summer of speculation, Cesc Fabragas has finally pledged himself to Arsenal... For now.

Given the noises that have been coming from all parties involved over the past few weeks, it's hardly the world's most shocking news. The Gunners were refusing to negotiate, the player was saying nothing and Barcelona seemed unwilling to submit a follow-up bid, instead relying on the Fabregas's international colleagues to unsettle him.

In the end, it was Arsenal who got their way and there's no doubt the fans will be delighted with the news and the latest football betting odds will reflect what a boost he gives the side.

Speaking about his decision, the midfielder said: "I am a professional and I fully understand that it is Arsenal's prerogative not to sell me.

"I owe a lot to the club, manager and the fans and I will respect their decision and will now concentrate on the new season ahead with Arsenal."

He added that he was "100 per cent focused" on his current club.

Of course, it's not a ringing endorsement of the side and it will have done nothing to dispel speculation that he is set to move on next summer.

However, with Fabregas staying put, Arsenal will have an excellent chance of ending their run of five years without a trophy. The latest Premier League odds suggest they're in with a chance.

Whether success in the Premier League will convince him to stay put for longer remains to be seen, but the Gunners will no doubt be pleased they have been able to hold on to him for as long as they have.

Now they just have to pray he stays free from injury for the whole season.