Blow for Arsenal as 'the next Luis Suarez' rejects the Premier League leaders

Arsenal received a transfer blow as Vitor Roque rejects the Premier League leaders, according to a fresh report.

The Gunners are just 11 games away from winning their first Premier League title since 2004.

On Sunday, the club reclaimed their five points lead at the Premier League summit, with a 3-0 win over Fulham.

Meanwhile, off the pitch Arsenal have been linked with a range of summer moves as Mikel Arteta looks to maintain the club’s momentum into next season.

The club have been linked to the likes of Declan Rice, Wilfried Zaha and Alexis Mac Allister.

However, their reported move for Athletico Paranaense forward Roque appears to have fallen through.

Arsenal rejected by Roque

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Roque has snubbed a move to the Emirates.

The Gunners were said to be one of several clubs tracking the 18-year-old, who has been likened to Luis Saurez.

However, following interest from Barcelona, the young Brazilian is allegedly refusing to entertain other offers.

Roque only joined Athletico Paranaense last April from Cruzeiro for a fee of £4.7million.

In a past interview with Sport, the forward admitted Barcelona would be his destination of choice. He said: “It's a dream not only for me but also for any player who comes along.

"If I end up going to Barca, it will be a great joy for my family and for me.

"That's why I have to keep working hard and hope that everything comes together in time."

Roque added that he was inspired by Liverpool and Barcelona legend Suarez.

“There is a great similarity," Roque added.

"Both Luis Suarez and I use a lot of physicality in the way we play, and we also have points in common in finishing, being very keen on scoring goals,” he said.

“He’s now playing here at Gremio and I hope that when we play we can swap shirts. I’d love to have his shirt. I get a lot of inspiration from what he does and I hope that, if I go to Barcelona, I can be as successful as he was.”