Arsenal step up transfer chase for wonderkid likened to legendary Barcelona duo

03 November 2023 , 01:16

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Arsenal step up transfer chase for wonderkid likened to legendary Barcelona duo

Arsenal have taken a 'step forward' in their pursuit of Belgian wonderkid Arthur Vermeeren, who has previously been likened to Xavi and Andres Iniesta.

The 18-year-old only made his senior debut last season, helping Royal Antwerp to win the Belgian league and cup double. His performances earned the midfielder a call-up to the Belgian senior team, attracting interest from a range of top clubs.

Two of those clubs are Barcelona and Arsenal, with both teams having prioritised signing young stars in recent years. Barca had appeared to be leading the chase for Vermeeren, who signed a new three-year deal with Antwerp in February.

But according to Spanish newspaper Sport, it is now the Gunners who have jumped ahead. It is said that the Premier League title contenders have taken a 'step forward', with the Belgian on their shortlist.

Boss Mikel Arteta is keen to improve his options in midfield, with that position having proven to be somewhat of a weakness this campaign. Though Vermeeren is seen as being a 'risky option', Gunners chiefs are said to be convinced he can adapt to their side.

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It is expected that Vermeeren will depart Belgium in either January or next summer. The player himself is though to be ready to take a step up to a bigger club, having proven to be a key player for Antwerp.

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Arsenal are closing in on signing Belgian wonderkid Arthur Vermeeren (Nico Vereecken / Photo News via Getty Images)

They do face competition from Barca though, with the La Liga champions having added him to a shortlist of their own. Though he is not a priority for boss Xavi, the 18-year-old is seen as being an 'interesting posibility'.

There is a release clause of around £13million, which both Barca and Arsenal are considering activating. He has been monitored by Barca for some time and is seen as being perfect for the club's style.

He certainly has the backing of those who know him best, with Antwerp sporting director Marc Overmars comparing him to Barca legends Xavi and Iniesta. His comments will also be heard at the Emirates, with Overmars having enjoyed a successful spell at the Gunners as a player.

"I do not have doubts that Vermeeren can play in the Barça. When I played here, can see like Xavi and Iniesta went growing... And now that see here to Vermeeren, have the same profile," he told FCBN.

"The Barça is growing. It takes time reconstruct everything. You have to see the last season, when they won the League of Spain."

Jacob Leeks