Gunners boss Arsene Wenger confirmed his skipper was not part of the travelling squad, officially at least to remain behind to work on match fitness following a hamstring problem which also prevented him from heading out on the Asia tour earlier this month. Striker Nicklas Bendtner and goalkeeper Manuel Almunia were also absent amid reports of impending moves. However, new signing Gervinho did make the trip. A delegation from Barcelona, led by vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu, is said to have been in London determined to push through a deal to bring midfielder Fabregas back to the Nou Camp, although Arsenal remain steadfast in their £40million valuation. Wenger told the club's official website: "The position at the moment (with Fabregas) is a 'no comment' situation because there is no movement at all." Wenger has always spoken publicly of his desire to keep his captain, and also contract rebel Samir Nasri, who has yet to pen a new deal, sparking more speculation he could also leave in a £20million move to title rivals Manchester City. "(It is) not completely (sorted that Samir will stay), but I want him to stay. He knows that. Hopefully we can sort that out in the coming weeks," Wenger added. "Almunia has been contacted by a few clubs, Bendtner as well. As long as the situation is not settled, we have to focus on the coming season with the players we have. "The players who are uncertain, it is difficult for them to focus on being completely committed." After facing Cologne at the Rhein Energie Stadion on Saturday, Arsenal will remain in Germany as they continue preparations for the Emirates Cup on July 30 and 31. Whether or not the current Gunners skipper will lead the team out against Boca Juniors remains to be seen. However, centre-back Johan Djourou maintains the players cannot let constant speculation cause them to lose focus. "We know that every summer, you are going to have a big story about players leaving and coming in," the Switzerland international said. "Of course we do not want our best players to leave, but if they have to go, they will go and I am sure the manager will replace who will go. "For us players, it is just about focusing on the team and being ready for the season." Djourou believes the trip to Asia has made them a tighter group. He said: "It brought the players closer together and that is good. The mood is great and you can see that."
