Manchester United and Liverpool are among a host of sides keeping an eye on Belgian teenage star Arthur Vermeeren ahead of a potential January swoop, with Barcelona also thought to be tracking his progress.
The 18-year-old has been an ever-present in the Royal Antwerp starting XI this season despite his tender years, and played 90 minutes as they were thrashed 5-0 by Barcelona in the Champions League group stage opener.
Deployed at the base of midfield, he made his Belgium U21 debut in September and his profile continues to rise amid hopes that he could usher in a new generation of Belgian football after the failed “golden generation”.
🎥 Arthur Vermeeren vs FC Barcelona
✍️ @xam_fc
— Barça Spaces (@BarcaSpaces) September 23, 2023
According to Mundo Deportivo, he may not be in the Jupiler Pro League for much longer though. They report that a whole host of clubs are keeping tabs on his progress and could move as early as January, with Liverpool, the Red Devils and Barcelona all among the pack chasing his signature.
Under contract until 2025, he is thought to be valued at between 15 and 20 million euros, a fee which could look a bargain should he continue his impressive rise through the ranks.
Though Jurgen Klopp’s side have overhauled their midfield over the summer, they are still looking for a long-term option at the base of midfield after missing out on both Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia over the summer, instead signing the 28-year-old Wataru Endo from Stuttgart.
Whether Vermeeren would be willing to accept a smaller role initially at either club is something that the midfielder will have to decide, but with clubs sniffing around and his profile only set to grow on the Champions League stage, he may have a decision to make soon.
