Arsenal join Barcelona, Manchester United in race for €20 million teenage midfielder

One of Barcelona’s main objectives during the 2022/23 summer transfer window was to sign a defensive midfielder in an attempt to replace the departing Sergio Busquets.

The Spaniard, despite his age, was one of the most important players at the club, and the only natural no. 6 in the squad. Not to forget, the holder of the captain’s armband.

However, given their delicate financial situation, Barcelona could only window shop among the truly elite players in that position, with the likes of Joshua Kimmich, Marcelo Brozovic, and Martin Zubimendi, among others, linked to the club.

Eventually, Barcelona decided to shell out €3.5 million on one of their own — Oriol Romeu —, who joined from Girona.

The 32-year-old has done well so far in that role, but is undoubtedly no more than a stop-gap solution for Barça. As such, they continue their hunt for a number 6 that can take over Busquets’ throne.

One such player is Royal Antwerp’s Arthur Vermeeren. Barça were said to be interested in the 18-year-old midfielder in the summer, and their scouting has continued into this season, with scouts sent to watch his performances.

Barcelona will definitely face competition for his signature, though, as TEAMtalk report that Arsenal are joined the queue for his services.

Manchester United are also said to be interested, alongside Liverpool, West Ham, and Brighton & Hove Albion, but Mikel Arteta is particularly keen on signing him as he wants to reshape the profiles in Arsenal’s midfield.

The Spanish boss wants to shift Declan Rice to a more attacking role, and give the keys to the no. 6 role to Vermeeren.

Antwerp manager Mark van Bommel also addressed the Vermeeren links ahead of Barcelona’s game against Antwerp in the Champions League, saying:

“Whether Xavi has asked for some information on Arthur Vermeeren? (laughs) I won’t give him any information, because he would buy him immediately.”

The Belgian is currently valued at €20 million by the club, but if he manages to uphold his performances, that price tag will be only increase.