According to The Scottish Sun, West Ham are said to be considering a £20m move for Barcelona's out-of-favour midfielder Denis Suarez, also said to be of interest to Arsenal and Unai Emery, who worked with the player whilst at Sevilla.

What's the word, then?

The Hammers have identified Suarez as a potential candidate to strengthen their midfield options, but according to the aforementioned report, the 25-year-old has rejected the east London-based club in favour of being reunited with Emery at Arsenal.

However, the reigning Spanish champions are happier with West Ham's offer, as it involves a sum of £20m being paid upfront for the Spaniard's services, something that the Gunners aren't prepared to offer until the summer after an initial six-month loan deal.

Suarez spent the 2014/15 season on loan at Sevilla, with the pair winning the Europa League together having beaten Liverpool in the final. The Spanish international is a big fan of Emery, and is willing to wait for the Gunners to stump up the cash in the summer despite making just six appearances for Barcelona this season - Suarez cannot be bought to the Emirates this month, as Arsenal failed to budget for any January arrivals.

Why do West Ham want him?

Who wouldn't want him? Suarez is a very classy operator in the middle of the park, and is a player that oozes class and creativity. He is a similar player in the No.10 role to current Hammers' favourite Manuel Lanzini, but has displayed more versatility to his game in comparison to the Argentinian as he can also play in a deeper central midfield position.

Similarly to another West Ham player in Jack Wilshere, Suarez also has a mean streak to his game, as well as being an excellent passer of the ball and a controller of the midfield - he is a unique blend of the two players as he pairs the aforementioned traits with good dribbling skills and exquisite vision.

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If the Hammers are to pip Arsenal to the deal, it will be sure to anger fans of the Gunners who are desperate to see new arrivals at the Emirates this month.