Arsenal are reportedly gearing up for a significant move in the upcoming January transfer window, with their sights set on young talent Arthur Vermeeren from Royal Antwerp.

Amidst growing competition, particularly from Barcelona, the London club is poised to make a strategic bid for the midfielder.

Belgium's Arthur Vermeeren pictured during a training session of the Belgian national soccer team Red Devils, at the Royal Belgian Football Association's training center, in Tubize, Sunday 15 October 2023. The Red Devils are playing against Sweden on Monday, match 7/8 in Group F of the Euro 2024 qualifications. BELGA PHOTO BRUNO FAHY (Photo by BRUNO FAHY/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)
Belgium’s Arthur Vermeeren pictured during a training session of the Belgian national soccer team Red Devils, at the Royal Belgian Football Association’s training center, in Tubize, Sunday 15 October 2023. The Red Devils are playing against Sweden on Monday, match 7/8 in Group F of the Euro 2024 qualifications.  (Photo by BRUNO FAHY/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)

Arsenal are set to make a move in the January transfer window for Arthur Vermeeren, the young midfielder from Royal Antwerp, according to Tutto Mercato Web. The club is reportedly preparing an offer of €15 million for the 18-year-old Belgian, who has impressed many with his performances.

Vermeeren has played a significant role in Antwerp‘s midfield, contributing to their Belgian league title last season. His recent debut with the Belgian under-21 team in October has only increased interest in him, with clubs like Barcelona also keeping tabs.

Arsenal‘s aim is to strengthen their midfield, and Vermeeren seems to fit their criteria.

Antwerp, aware of the rising interest, are reportedly expecting offers and have set their price at €25 million. While there were earlier suggestions that Arsenal might go up to €20 million, current reports indicate a more conservative figure.

Antwerp's Arthur Vermeeren pictured during a press conference of Belgian soccer team Royal Antwerp FC, on Tuesday 03 October 2023 in Antwerp. The team is preparing for tomorrow's game against Ukrainian club Shakhtar Donetsk, on day two of the Champions League group stage, in the group H. BELGA PHOTO TOM GOYVAERTS (Photo by TOM GOYVAERTS/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)
Antwerp’s Arthur Vermeeren pictured during a press conference of Belgian soccer team Royal Antwerp FC, on Tuesday 03 October 2023 in Antwerp. The team is preparing for tomorrow’s game against Ukrainian club Shakhtar Donetsk, on day two of the Champions League group stage, in the group H. BELGA PHOTO TOM GOYVAERTS (Photo by TOM GOYVAERTS/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)

Barcelona, looking to add depth to their midfield after Gavi’s injury, are also monitoring Vermeeren’s situation. The competition to sign him is likely to intensify, with the deciding factor expected to be the financial offer, as per sources close to Barcelona.

Mikel Arteta is said to be keen on bringing Vermeeren to the team and is willing to spend €15 million in January.

However, the deal could get complicated, given Antwerp‘s valuation of €25 million.

Vermeeren’s potential performance in Euro 2024 could further hike his value, making it tougher for Arsenal and other interested clubs to negotiate next summer.