Barcelona are reportedly keen for Denis Suarez to sign a new contract at Camp Nou before moving to Arsenal.
Suarez was involved in Barcelona's Copa del Rey last-16 second leg against Levante on Thursday night, but the 25-year-old has struggled for regular action during the 2018-19 campaign.
Arsenal have been strongly linked with a move for the attacker in recent weeks, and it is understood that the Gunners are on the verge of taking Suarez on an initial loan, which could be made permanent at the end of the campaign.
However, according to Metro, Barcelona want Suarez to first pen a new contract at Camp Nou before the deal goes through.
The Spaniard's current deal with Barcelona will expire in 2020, and the report has claimed that the Spanish champions are keen to protect his market value should he pick up a long-term injury in North London.
Suarez, who represented Manchester City between 2011 and 2013, has only played 17 minutes of league football for Barcelona this season.
Matt Law
