Club CEO admits Arsenal target who just destroyed Barcelona could move in January

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The future of Arsenal target Arthur Vermeeren is now up in the air.

Arsenal have been credited with an interest in signing Royal Antwerp sensation Arthur Vermeeren.

The 18-year-old midfielder is garnering a great deal of attention at the moment. The teenager produced a remarkable, goalscoring performance against Barcelona in a Champions League group stage clash on Wednesday. Despite his youth, he has already proven his ability to shine at the very highest level of the game.

He would be a fascinating addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad. Arsenal are currently on the lookout for new additions to their midfield contingent. Vermeeren looks to have all the qualities required to thrive in the Premier League, it would interesting to see him test himself in that environment week in, week out.

Thomas Partey can no longer be relied upon due to his persistent injury issues. Jorginho’s future at the club is in doubt as negotiations over a new contract have stalled. Mohamed Elneny is coming towards the end of his playing career. As such, a midfield rebuild is surely on the horizon at the Emirates Stadium. 

This could could open the door to Vermeeren making his way to north London. 

What next for Arsenal target Arthur Vermeeren?

Royal Antwerp CEO Sven Jacques certainly accepts that the player’s future lies beyond the Belgian league. As quoted by HLN, he said, “we don’t assume and we hope not, but there is a chance that Arthur will no longer be owned by Antwerp after January. The interest in him grows every week. He can leave, leave and stay for a while or just stay. If we sell it, it will definitely be at the right price.”

Whether Arsenal are currently in a financial position to pull off a move for Vermeeren remains to be seen. The Gunners do not have a huge budget at their disposal heading into the winter market. The amount of interest in Vermeeren could easily lead to a bidding war, driving his price tag up and beyond the reach of Arsenal. His dazzling display against Barcelona will only have increased his value further.

Vermeeren may also lack the amount of experience that Arteta is currently looking for. The Spanish coach has shown a willingness to invest in young players in the past, but with the Gunners currently chasing a Premier League title, he may want to add a slightly more seasoned and proven option to his ranks. With that in mind, it makes sense that Aston Villa star Douglas Luiz has been named as Arteta’s “dream” target this January.