Arsenal transfer news: Denis Suarez reveals he was a Gunners fan as a child after completing loan from Barcelona

The Spanish midfielder joins Unai Emery in north London on loan with an option to buy after extending his deal at the Nou Camp

Denis Suarez has revealed he was an Arsenal fan as a child with Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp inspiring him.

The Barcelona midfielder, who will wear the No 22 shirt for Arsenal, moves to the Emirates on loan until the end of the season.

After penning a contract extension until 2021, Suarez joins his compatriot Unai Emery in north London, with the Gunners possessing an option to buy.

And Suarez insists Arsenal was his team growing up and believes the club’s footballing philosophy matches his own.

“One thing no one knows about me is that when I was little I used to watch the Premier League on TV. When I was little, Arsenal was the team that inspired me, I used to watch Bergkamp and Henry, they were legends,” said Suarez.

“My football philosophy? Have fun, enjoy yourself and win.

“I’m a midfielder and by best quality is my final ball. The person I look up to most in the world of football is Andres Iniesta.

“He has always been my idol, ever since I was young.”

The 25-year-old also delivered an emotional message to his Barcelona team-mates.

Denis Suarez poses with the Arsenal shirt (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

He said: “You’re a group of amazing people! Thank you for everything, see you soon. Good luck and Força Barça.”

Suarez could make his debut for the Gunners on Sunday against his former club Manchester City at the Etihad.

Arsenal new signing Denis Suarez (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Pep Guardiola had just left the Blaugrana before Suarez left City to join Barcelona as a 19-year-old.

And after spells with Sevilla and Villarreal, Barcelona bought the player back in 2016, but after failing to gain game time under Ernesto Valverde, he has decided to take on a new challenge in north London.