With Antwerp, the 18-year-old has advanced significantly in the past 12 months. For the Belgian champions, he is currently a sure starter in the middle of the pitch, and other top European teams, including Arsenal and Barcelona, have expressed admiration for his growth.
Barcelona has previously checked on the youngster this season, but according to Sport, Arsenal, who are now in negotiations with the player’s representative, may end up with him. This winter, they’re willing to take a chance and sign him for £13 million.
Massive Potential
Even though Vermeeren is just in his second season of professional football with Antwerp, a lot of teams are showing interest in signing him. Clubs are closely monitoring his progress, and before the winter transfer market opens, additional teams may decide to pursue him. Barcelona and Arsenal are renowned for developing young players on their rosters.
Barcelona has Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Pedri, Fermin Lopez, and Alejandro Balde, whereas Arsenal has Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka as examples. With so many graduates making their way into the starting lineup, Vermeeren would be a great addition to Barcelona, but given their current financial situation, they might not have the money to spend come the start of the New Year.
They were penalised by UEFA yesterday for violating the 2022–2023 Financial Fair Play regulations. This implies that Barcelona might not compete to sign Vermeeren in January, which would give Arsenal a significant advantage. The Belgian is capable of playing in both the no. 6 and no. 8 positions. He can pass the ball well and maintain focus. He has also gotten more creative in his play, and with the correct coaching, he has all the makings of a great play-maker.