Man Utd initiate move for Declan Rice 2.0 as asking price tag revealed

Jacque Talbot

• 13 Jan 2024 12:30 GMT
• 3 min read

Manchester United have reportedly initiated the move to sign Arthur Vermeeren, whose deal from Royal Antwerp will cost around £50 million.

A report from Football Insider states that the Belgian teenage sensation is on the Red Devils’ radar and things have moved so much that the side are now laying the groundwork to sign him.

The youngster has become one of the most highly sought-after prospects in Europe in the last few months, leading to extensive links to Barcelona and Man Utd. Vermeeren spent his youth career with Lierse SK, KV Mechelen, before moving to Royal Antwerp, where he graduated.

In 65 games for the side, he was scored three goals and provided eight assists. The Red Devils are looking to do something of an overhaul, in a bid to bring the average age of the side down. Meanwhile, the future of Casemiro, Sofyan Amrabat, and Scott McTominay are not yeat clear. Kobbie Mainoo is one for the future but the youngster needs someone alongside him in midfielder.

Vermeeren will cost £50m in total but the report states that the initial fee would be around £25m, with add-ons making up the rest of the total sum.

How good is Arthur Vermeeren?

Vermeeren broke into the starting XI as a 17-year-old in late 2022 and immediately made himself an a starter for coach Mark van Bommel.

Just days after his 18th birthday, head coach Van Bommel was touting him for a call-up to the Belgium international team.

He said: “The whole club is very happy with Arthur. I already knew at the first training that he would make minutes. He is doing well, playing top matches every week. His development is going well,” he said.

“I think ‘Tuur’ is capable of playing for Belgium - he wouldn't look out of place in the least. Things can go fast for him, but we shouldn't put any pressure on him. I'm not saying he should be there, but it is possible.

“Arthur has so far adapted smoothly to every step up, so… He has a down-to-earth family, doesn't do crazy things himself. That is already special.”