Barcelona are alert to the possibility of growing interest from Premier League sides like Manchester United and Liverpool in Arthur Vermeeren.
According to Sport via Sport Witness, Barcelona are well informed about the growing interest in 18-year-old target Arthur Vermeeren. The Royal Antwerp midfielder has considerable interest from Liverpool and Manchester United.
Arthur Vermeeren has made a telling impression on many clubs following his progress. He was one of the top performers for Royal Antwerp during their league-winning campaign last season and continues to shine for the Belgian outfit.
Their presence in the Champions League has given top clubs a chance to watch him closely, with Barcelona doing so when they played Royal Antwerp. The Catalans have maintained a strong interest in the 18-year-old since and plan to approach when the time is right.
Considering the range of clubs vying for Vermeeren, Royal Antwerp are aware of the growing interest in their midfielder. They expect one of those sides to make a move for him, as Barcelona are repeatedly alert to the situation.
Sporting director Deco was previously informed of Royal Antwerp’s €20 million asking price. Now, that may have increased slightly, with the Belgian side keen on earning something close to €25 million. Barcelona were reportedly alerted that some sides could bid substantially for Vermeeren.
Arsenal are also considering paying €20 million, which, around the time of the report, is what Royal Antwerp wanted. The most significant interest from the Premier League comes from Liverpool and Manchester United.
The two giants of English football have kept tabs on Vermeeren for some time now and could approach the January window. Jurgen Klopp may add the 18-year-old midfielder to his ranks as he bolsters the position.
Manchester United, despite their ongoing struggles on the pitch, may look at Vermeeren as an opportunity.
The price point would also suit the Red Devils in their quest to manage their finances and not overspend.
As for Barcelona, Xavi Hernandez remains keen to tie up a move for the Belgian youngster. Vermeeren remains aware of their interest. He may prefer a move if the Catalans can bid to Royal Altwerp’s liking, which at this point seems unlikely.
