Arsenal are preparing an offer of more than €100m for Barcelona attacking midfielder Fermin Lopez, according to El Nacional.
The London club are also ready to significantly improve the 23-year-old’s wages if he agrees to move to the Premier League.
Chelsea are also interested in the Spain midfielder and have reportedly been prepared to pay more than €120m for him. However, Fermin’s preference is to remain at Barcelona.
Fermin would like to earn more at the Catalan club, as he wants to feel that his contribution is valued. He remains under contract with Barcelona until 2031.
The midfielder has made six appearances in all competitions this season, scoring four goals and providing two assists.
Arsenal’s potential approach would represent a major test of Barcelona’s determination to keep a player who remains a priority for the club despite interest from both Premier League sides.