Arsenal are reportedly ready to table a €15 million offer to sign Arthur Vermeeren, although Royal Antwerp will hold out for €25 million.
According to Tutto Mercato Web, Arsenal are ready to make a concrete offer worth €15 million for Arthur Vermeeren in January. Royal Antwerp are anticipating approaches for their rising midfield star but will hold out for at least €25 million for the 18-year-old, with Barcelona also interested.
There is a battle brewing in the background for Royal Antwerp midfielder Arthur Vermeeren. A host of clubs are reportedly impressed by the 18-year-old’s rise to prominence. He also made his Belgium debut during the international break in October.
Vermeeren helped Antwerp win the Belgian league last season and has continued to perform at the highest levels for the club. Moreover, he has also gained valuable experience playing in the Champions League, which has made him a better player.
Barcelona became one of the first clubs to show an interest in the midfielder and could accelerate their pursuit owing to Gavi’s injury. The Catalans are reportedly informed about other clubs chasing the 18-year-old, and things could come down to the money on offer.
Royal Antwerp have always had a value on the €25 million-rated Barcelona target. Yet, no interested club are keen on paying that much in the current market. Some reports suggested Arsenal were open to paying up to €20 million, but the latest on the Gunners indicates they could place an offer for less.
Arsenal are reportedly keen on signing the midfielder and ready to spend €15 million in January to sign him. Mikel Arteta does need a new midfielder, leading to Arsenal being linked with several names, both in the experienced and young categories.
Arsenal are contemplating moving forward for Vermeeren, but the price could become an issue. They are adamant about seeking the right money (€25 million) for Barcelona target, but they are open to sale at that point.
If Vermeeren gets selected for Belgiaum’s Euro 2024 squad, then his valuation could rise further, at which point even €25 million won’t do the trick. Hence, for clubs like Arsenal and even Barcelona, paying €25 million or a fee close to that would make sense in January. Hence, Arsenal must find a way to convince Royal Antwerp, although their 15 million offer could get turned down by the Belgian side.
Plenty of energy and runs all over the pitch, but no real product against European class teams. Average skills, but he is learning and to get a call to the Belgium team, they must see something in him. He usually has poor ratings against strong opposition which is a worry. But with training he could become another Timber type player.