As the January transfer window approaches, Arsenal have reportedly taken a significant leap in the pursuit of Arthur Vermeeren, the promising 18-year-old from Royal Antwerp, outpacing Spanish giants Barcelona.

Arsenal are understood to be leading Barcelona in the pursuit of Arthur Vermeeren.

The 18-year-old Royal Antwerp midfielder is emerging as a prominent figure in the transfer rumour mill, with reports suggesting a bid in the region of €15m could be tabled by the Gunners come January.

Recent coverage has illuminated the competition between the two clubs for Vermeeren’s signature, but it appears that Arsenal could be set to offer a higher fee to expedite the deal, in an effort to secure Vermeeren’s services ahead of Barcelona.

Barcelona’s interest in the player has been long-standing; however, the Catalan giants have yet to make a definitive move.

This hesitation could potentially see them ‘lose the player’ to Arsenal, who are said to be ‘considering advancing the operation’.

This comes amidst suggestions that the La Liga side are turning their focus towards Corinthians’ 18-year-old Gabriel Moscardo, indicating a possible strategic pivot in their recruitment.

Sport, the Spanish publication, has reported that Arsenal have made significant inroads with Vermeeren’s representatives, thereby solidifying their position in transfer discussions.

Furthermore, it has been reported that Antwerp have signalled to Barcelona the growing interest from other clubs, with Arsenal evidently at the forefront of this chase.

Vermeeren has accumulated over 50 appearances for the Jupiler Pro League club, showcasing a level of maturity and potential that belies his limited experience. Despite the inherent risk associated with his youthful profile, Arsenal’s recruitment team is believed to be confident in the Belgian’s ability to adapt to the demands of the Premier League.

Vermeeren’s trajectory has also seen him called up to the Belgian national team, where he marked his official debut in their recent 3-2 victory against Austria in the Euro qualifiers.

At club level, Vermeeren’s statistics this season are noteworthy, having contributed one goal and five assists in 19 outings. His current form and the potential he has displayed are key factors in Arsenal’s interest.

His contract with Royal Antwerp runs until the summer of 2026.

With Arsenal’s financial capability to meet the asking price and Barcelona’s ongoing fiscal problems, the Premier League side’s interest in Vermeeren could very well materialise into a solid acquisition, come the January window.