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Manchester United trailing to Arsenal in race for 18-year-old Belgian midfielder

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Manchester United will have tough competition from Arsenal and FC Barcelona for Arthur Vermeeren

According to Fichajes (h/t Liverpool Echo), Manchester United are lagging behind Arsenal in the race to sign Belgian youngster Arthur Vermeeren.

At just 18 years old, Vermeeren has made a name for himself at Antwerp this season and garnered interest from all across Europe. Despite competition from Manchester United and Arsenal in the Premier League, FC Barcelona are also a fan of the midfielder.

It appears that Vermeeren could be available to Arsenal in the January transfer window for approximately £17 million. With Barcelona in the picture, manager Mikel Arteta might want to get this deal done as soon as possible.

Arthur Vermeeren is a prodigious talent (Photo by TOM GOYVAERTS/Belga/AFP via Getty Images)
Arthur Vermeeren is a prodigious talent (Photo by TOM GOYVAERTS/Belga/AFP via Getty Images)

Casemiro has been a pale shadow of his former self for Man United. Unlike last season when he was on top of his game, the Brazilian has struggled to meet the energy that the game demands and is looking pretty legged.

Consequently, despite the last-minute acquisition of Soyfan Amrabat in the summer transfer window, speculation is growing that United will soon seek a solution to this problem and consider a long-term successor.

Top Belgian youngster Vermeeren draws comparisons to Barcelona’s Sergio Busquets and has been making waves in the Jupiler Pro League. The new Champions League season offers fresh insights for clubs and their scouts.

Manchester United 'keeping tabs' on 18-year-old Royal Antwerp midfielder Arthur Vermeeren.
Manchester United ‘keeping tabs’ on 18-year-old Royal Antwerp midfielder Arthur Vermeeren. (Photo by LAURIE DIEFFEMBACQ/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)

The group stages are crucial for anyone wanting to witness promising young players in action. Royal Antwerp’s next UCL match at home against Shakhtar Donetsk is scheduled for October 4.

Both United and Arsenal have established themselves as places for young talent to develop alongside experienced professionals. The pressing question now is whether United can secure the player during the upcoming transfer window and reinforce their midfield.

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Manchester United would be wise to enhance their central midfield with the skills of this 18-year-old. It’s a move for the future, not the present. To succeed, the Red Devils must act swiftly and decisively, as Barcelona have a track record of signing Europe’s top young talent.