Manchester United are reportedly the “leading contender” to sign Arthur Vermeeren, a target for Arsenal and Barcelona.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Arthur Vermeeren is the subject of interest from Manchester United. The Red Devils are willing to cough up €22 million to sign the 18-year-old midfield sensation. The Royal Antwerp prospect is also a target for other European bigwigs like Arsenal and Barcelona.
Who is Arthur Vermeeren?
Arthur Vermeeren has gone from strength to strength since breaking into the first-team squad at Royal Antwerp last year. A promising midfield prospect, the Belgian international is primarily a box-to-box midfielder. But he can also play as a holding midfielder whenever the situation demands so.
The 18-year-old has enjoyed an excellent 2023/24 campaign thus far, chipping in with two goals and six assists in 31 appearances. Meanwhile, Vermeeren’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of many high-profile clubs, including Manchester United, Arsenal, and Barcelona.
Heavy Competition for Vermeeren’s Signature
Manchester United’s interest in Arthur Vermeeren is understandable. Sofyan Amrabat, Casemiro, and Christian Eriksen face uncertain futures at Old Trafford. So, Manchester United might have a new-look midfield partnership next season. Arthur Vermeeren has thus emerged as a viable target. And the report claims the Red Devils lead the race to sign him, and they will offer €22 million to land him.
Arsenal can afford to pay €22 million to secure Vermeeren’s services. The Gunners have scouted the 18-year-old at Royal Antwerp this season. Meanwhile, the youngster is a viable target for the North London club amid uncertainties surrounding the future of Thomas Partey.
As for Barcelona, they signed Oriol Romeu and Ilkay Gundogan in the summer transfer window to bolster the midfield unit. But the duo are on the wrong side of 30 and will be short-term solutions for Barcelona. So, Arthur Vermeeren is an option worth considering for the Blaugrana.
With Manchester United being the front-runners, Arsenal and Barcelona need to step up. It will be interesting to see if the Belgian international moves to Old Trafford in a deal worth €22 million or if the other suitors can turn his head.
