New Atletico Madrid striker Luis Suarez is backing his club’s attempts to sign Lucas Torreira from Arsenal, according to AS.

The Spanish newspaper claims the former Barcelona player is a “great supporter” of his fellow countryman and they even claim he recommended the midfielder to the Gunners in the first place before he signed from Sampdoria in 2018.

It is believed that Torreira has already agreed personal terms with Atletico but the Spanish side have yet to come to an agreement with Arsenal about the structure of the deal.

The London club are reportedly asking for a loan with an obligation to buy but Atletico only want a purchase option. There is also a dispute over the final transfer fee with the Gunners currently holding out for €24m (£22m).

Reports in the UK suggest that Arsenal favour Torino’s offer for the player, with it being suggested that the Serie A club would be willing to pay a substantial loan fee, in the region of £11m, with another £11m due when the deal is made permanent.