Royal Antwerp manager Mark van Bommel has said that he will not give information to Barcelona about his 18-year-old gem Arthur Vermeeren as he fears the Blaugrana will prey him away.
We have reported before that Barcelona are truly interested in Vermeeren, but they have their reservations about the teenager. To begin with, they want to see his progression for some more time before coming up with a decision.
Furthermore, after scouting him since January this year, they have decided to see how he progresses, especially in the offensive department.
Can Vermeeren impress his potential next club?
Arthur Vermeeren is wanted by Barcelona (Photo by VIRGINIE LEFOUR/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)
18-year-old Vermeeren has started each of Antwerp’s nine games in all competitions this season, which is a reason enough to note that he is one of van Bommel’s top guys.
However, with Barcelona budding with interest, things might take a turn most notably next summer when the team will look to strengthen the midfield, especially the pivot position.
So when speaking about his player’s future, the Antwerp manager said,
“Whether Xavi has asked for some information on Arthur Vermeeren? (laughs) I won’t give him any information, because he would buy him immediately,” he told Eleven Belgium.
The former midfielder, who played for Barcelona for one season during his playing days, also said that he is looking forward to facing the Catalan giants in the UEFA Champions League, adding that this game is going to be very special for him.
“Whether I look forward to next week’s game against Barcelona? We have three days to prepare for Barcelona. We will do that as we prepare for any other game. It is special because I played there.
“I won the Champions League there and I played with Xavi in the midfield. That was fun. I still have some contact with the kit man. It has been 15 years ago so a lot has changed of course,” he added.
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/royal-antwerp-manager-hints-at-barcelonas-interest-in-midfielder-i-wont-give-any-information/
Author : Ash Reyna
Publish date : 2023-09-16 12:39:03
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