ARSENAL are reportedly set to beat Barcelona to the signing of a rising star from the Belgian league.
According to Sport, The Gunners are making moves to try and bring Arthur Vermeeren in this January.
GettyArsenal are reportedly set to beat Barcelona to the signing of Arthur Vermeeren[/caption]
The 18-year-old Antwerp midfielder had been on the list of midfielders being considered by Xavi and Barcelona for a summer transfer.
But Arsenal are reportedly ready to swoop in early and sign the youngster for around £13million.
Vermeeren has impressed in the Belgian first division and has already made 53 appearances for Antwerp despite his young age.
And he’s stepped up to the biggest stage this season featuring in all three of Antwerp’s Champions League group stage games while registering two assists in the process.
The talented young gun has previously been dubbed as the “next Andres Iniesta” and reports suggest that he has “everything” he need to succeed.
And he’s caught the attention of more than just Barcelona and Arsenal with Manchester United previously linked with a move too.
Expectations are high for Vermeeren who made his senior international debut for the Belgian national team last month.
Mikel Arteta is looking for midfield reinforcements despite already bringing in Declan Rice this summer for £105m.
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The Arsenal boss has had issues with Thomas Partey who has spent lengthy periods on the sidelines due to regular injuries.
While Granit Xhaka left north London this summer in favour of a switch to Bayer Leverkusen.
Vermeeren is understood to be a risky option for Arteta to add to the squad, but there is said to be belief that he would adapt well.
The teenage sensation is reportedly ready to make the next step in his career and is expected to leave Antwerp either in January or the upcoming summer transfer window.
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