Reports: How Chelsea's bid to sign Cesc Fabregas ahead of Man Utd was helped by his girlfriend

Cesc Fabregas signed a 5-year contract with Chelsea

Chelsea signed Cesc Fabregas yesterday in a £27 million deal, but the Blues’ pursuit of the former Arsenal captain was assisted by his girlfriend, according to the Daily Express.

Arsenal rejected the opportunity to bring the 27-year-old back to the Emirates, to the fury of Arsenal fans, and Fabregas was reportedly urged to turn down interest from Manchester United by the Spaniard’s girlfriend, Daniella Semaan.

Semaan is believed to have wanted to stay in Barcelona initially, but when it became clear that wasn’t an option, she favoured a move to Chelsea ahead of Manchester.

After signing for Chelsea, Fabregas said: “I considered all the other offers very carefully and I firmly believe that Chelsea is the best choice. They match my footballing ambitions with their hunger and desire to win trophies.

“They have an amazing squad of players and an incredible manager. I am fully committed to this team and I can’t wait to start playing.”

The midfielder is part of the Spain squad that begins their defence of the World Cup tonight against the Netherlands.