‘I tried everything I could to convince Him to jon Manchester City, but He has already made up his choice- you can take the Horse to the river but you can’t force it to drink water,’ Man City star Kelvin De Bruyne, who has confirmed that his £20 million countryman has agreed to join Arsenal instead of Man City
Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne has revealed that his efforts to convince his countryman, Arthur Vermeeren, to join Man City were unsuccessful, as the young Belgian star has made the decision to join Arsenal for a reported fee of €15 million.
Arsenal is said to be in the final stages of securing the 18-year-old midfielder’s transfer, dealing a blow to Barcelona, who had also identified him as a key target. The Gunners are confident that Vermeeren can adapt to the rigors of Premier League football, and the deal is expected to be completed in the upcoming January transfer window.
Vermeeren has spent his entire career at Belgian club Royal Antwerp, rising through their academy ranks and amassing 53 senior appearances. His recent debut for the Belgium national team has further emphasized his bright future in the sport.
The young midfielder is often described as a hybrid between a traditional holding midfielder and a box-to-box midfielder, showcasing versatility in his playing style. Former Arsenal star Marc Overmars, who currently serves as Royal Antwerp’s director of football, has likened Vermeeren to midfield maestros such as Andrés Iniesta and Xavi.
Overmars expressed his confidence in Vermeeren’s ability to play for Barcelona, citing his similar playing profile to the iconic Spanish midfielders.
Additionally, former Tottenham defender Toby Alderweireld, who was Vermeeren’s teammate at Royal Antwerp, has been vocal about his admiration for the teenager, noting his rapid adaptation and exceptional reading of the game.
Vermeeren’s decision to join Arsenal represents a significant step in his burgeoning career, with the Premier League providing an exciting platform for his development.
As Manchester City’s De Bruyne confirms his move to Arsenal, fans can look forward to witnessing the young Belgian talent’s progress in the English top flight.
