Arsenal are reportedly making progress in their pursuit of Royal Antwerp midfielder Arthur Vermeeren.
According to the Spanish publication Sport, Arsenal is considering a £13 million bid for the youngster.
The Gunners have made a strong start to the season, trailing league leaders Tottenham by two points and level with Premier League champions Manchester City.
Mikel Arteta’s men are still unbeaten in the league, but they were knocked out of the League Cup by West Ham United 3-1 last night.
While Arsenal has been impressive in the early stages of the season, there have been some concerns about their midfield.
Indeed, Martin Odegaard has fallen far short of his usual standards this season, while Kai Havertz has struggled to adjust to a midfield role.
Arteta may look to bolster his options in the middle of the park in January, with Arthur Vermeeren reportedly a target.
Arsenal getting closer to Vermeeren signing
Sport reports that Barcelona also hold an interest in Vermeeren as Xavi is aiming to bring in a midfielder next summer.
But it’s noted they could miss out to Arsenal, with Arteta’s men weighing up a £13 million offer.
Indeed, the North Londoners have taken a step forward with their interest and have the 18-year-old on their list of targets.
While Vermeeren is seen as a ‘risky’ option for the Gunners, the report notes they are convinced he would adapt to English football with ease.
Vermeeren is enjoying an exceptional campaign in Belgium as he’s netted one goal and provided five assists from a deeper-lying midfield role.
The Belgian youngster has even outperformed Odegaard when it comes to assists so far this term, with the Arsenal captain managing just one in all competitions.
He has also demonstrated his ability to operate at the highest level, as two of his three Champions League appearances have resulted in assists.
The young playmaker appears to have a promising future in the game. However, it would be surprising to see Arsenal turn to him to solve their midfield problems.
While Vermeeren is undoubtedly a highly rated prospect, signing him to bolster Arsenal’s title hopes would be a huge risk.
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