The transfer of Arsenal stimulates the eye of Barcelona Kevin-Prince Boateng replaces Denis Suarez

Barcelona is getting closer to the signing of Kevin-Prince Boateng – paving the way for Denis Suarez to join Arsenal.

Boateng has become a shock target for the La Liga giants with ongoing talks on a loan transfer to Nou camp.

The former Portsmouth midfielder, 31, is now active with Italian club Sbaduolo.

Barca's director, Ernesto Valverde, wanted to replace Suarez before sanctioning his temporary transfer to Arsenal.

Boateng is expected to join the leaders of La Liga for a loan until the end of the season, with a permanent membership option for £ 7m in the summer.

The Ghanaian midfielder joined Sbaduolo only in the summer and had a good start to Serie A, scoring three times in his first five games.

He is likely to take the place of Suarez in the Barca team with the Spanish under an agreement on a loan to Arsenal.

Gunners do not have money to spend for permanent transfers, but have been in talks with Barca for a short-term deal.

Arsenal was also asked to make a move for the right back after a serious knee injury to Hector Bellerin.

But Emery is likely to stick to his current options with Stephan Lichtsteiner and Ainsley Maitland-Niles available.