Arsenal have agreed with personal terms with Denis Suarez, but are struggling to come up with the £10m fee demanded by Barcelona.
The Gunners are on a tight budget this month after spending in the previous three transfer windows.
Marca believes the north London club have practically no money as they are unable to fork out £10m for the 25-year-old.
Manager Unai Emery wants to add another winger to his squad and has pinpointed Suarez as a suitable option, having worked with him for one season at Sevilla.
Barcelona have promised Suarez that he can leave this month, but they will continue to hold out for a fee.