FC Barcelona will be heading into their upcoming clash in the UEFA Champions League with much anticipation. As they take on Belgian champions Royal Antwerp, the Catalans have many reasons to be looking forward to this European encounter.
For starters, it is a game in a particular competition where Barcelona have been hoping to do much better. Recent campaigns in the Champions League have been rather disappointing, and as such the Blaugranes now want to make an impact on the European competition.
Another reason out of many, according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, will be a particular 18-year-old Belgian talent who plays for Antwerp. Midfield talent Arthur Vermeeren is expected to make an appearance against Barcelona while representing Royal Antwerp in what will be his own first Champions League group stage appearance.
The reason why his inclusion in this game excites Barcelona is because of the club’s interest in his signature. La Blaugrana are invested in the player and are reportedly in the market to recruit his talents for themselves.
Antwerp head coach Mark Van Bommel was also questioned regarding Barca’s interest in the 18-year-old recently, and the coach acknowledged the player’s quality and development. The midfield talent will surely be one to keep an eye out towards during the clash between the Catalan kings and their opponents from Belgium.
Alongside the clash itself, Barcelona’s higher-ups are reportedly looking forward to meeting the representatives of the player as well. In an attempt to further progress talks, Barcelona will be involved in inquiring about the player’s future plans and demands of his current club as well.
As per SPORT, the current understanding is that Royal Antwerp value their 18-year-old star at around €20 million. Moreover, having a contract in place until 2026, that valuation is likely to grow further down the years and by the time 2026 comes around, Vermeeren will already be close to 21 years of age.
