Arsenal could be about to close in on Arthur Vermeeren in January on a cut-price deal.
The Gunners’ unbeaten run ended at the weekend controversially, as Mikel Arteta‘s side were beaten by Newcastle United. The Spanish manager opted for Kai Havertz starting in Odegaard’s absence, with Rice and Jorginho completing the midfield.
The center of the pitch has been a point of contention for Arsenal all season. However, it appears that Arteta may be about to address that problem in the January transfer window.
Arthur Vermeeren on the radar for the Gunners
Spanish outlet Sport has claimed Arthur Vermeeren could arrive at Arsenal in a deal worth under £15 million.
The Royal Antwerp teenager has been courting attention from both the north Londoners and Barcelona following an impressive rise – however, the report claims that the Gunners are “closing in on a deal”.
Given Vermeeren’s quality, it is surprising that more team are not in the race to sign him. And given Barcelona’s financial struggles, a bidding war is unlikely and Arsenal may get their man for a bargain.
Vermeeren – A perfect fit for Arsenal
Arsenal look incredibly light in midfield this season, following Xhaka and Maitland-Niles leaving. Lokonga has also left on loan and Partey is struggling with injury. Declan Rice is the first-choice No.6 but has had to play as a No.8, with Jorginho coming in to help with buildup in recent weeks.
No.8 is the best position for Vermeeren, though he can also play as a No.6. He could well be used as an option ahead of Rice, alongside Odegaard, instead of Fabio Vieira or Kai Havertz. A midfield of Rice, Vermeeren and Odegaard looks very balanced.
Arteta is said to also be in the market for a striker this winter.
Transfermarkt values Vermeeren to be worth €25 million.
For more sports updates, follow us on Twitter.
