The Catalans had a €35m offer for the midfielder turned down by the Gunners last month, who for their part have shown little sign they would like to part with one of their most prized players.

Barca lured Henry, Arsenal’s all-time leading goalscorer, away from north London three years ago and while the striker said he would like to see Fabregas remain, it would be understandable if the 23-year-old returned to his homeland.

“It is hard because the guy is from Barcelona. I wouldn’t like to be in his shoes that’s all I can say,” Henry told Radio Five’s Sportsweek programme.

“I wouldn’t like to be in his position because he is from there and he loves Arsenal.

“I don’t know what to say about this, because I don’t want to talk for him.

“But as an Arsenal fan, for me, I want him to stay at Arsenal, but I would also understand if he goes back home.”

Henry is preparing to begin a new chapter in his life after he signed for Major League Soccer side the New York Red Bulls this week.

The 32-year-old is likely to finish his career in the United States after he signed a “multi-year deal”, but revealed when his playing days are over he would like to return to the Emirates Stadium in some capacity.

“What I want to do is when I retire, I don’t know how, but I want to come back to Arsenal,” he added.

“I have just come here (New York) to play and to compete and win another title. After everything is done then I will think about it.

“Whatever it is I want to come back (to Arsenal), maybe as a waterboy, I just love this club.”

Coincidentally, Henry’s first game for New York could be against the Gunners’ north-London rivals Tottenham, with the teams to meet in a pre-season friendly on Thursday.

“I’m trying to get back in shape (for the match),” he added.

“I’ve not done much since the World Cup. I don’t think I will play long, but we will see.”