Manchester United have been regularly named as a contender to sign Royal Antwerp’s Arthur Vermeeren throughout this year.
Back in March, the 18-year-old dismissed the possibility of moving to Old Trafford and also stated these rumours came “faster than expected”.
Today’s Het Nieuwsblad has published a detailed interview with the midfielder where they also talk about Manchester United.
The Belgium international turned 18 years of age on February 7th and he signed a new deal [until 2026] a day later. His impressive performances have seen several clubs take notice but the player has insisted that he’s not looking for an improved deal.
It’s claimed rumours linking him with a move away from the Jupiler Pro League side first surfaced a day after his birthday, and the ‘great thing is’ it was Manchester United.
He’s aware of these links but insists there’s nothing concrete so far with the Red Devils or another club.
“Yes, then you get the articles forwarded, don’t you, or then my brothers will come with it. The youngest in particular [Caesar, 14] is always very enthusiastic. He reads everything and believes everything immediately. (laughs) Maybe normal at that age, but then I tell him that not everything that appears in the newspapers or online is true,” he said.
As well as Manchester United, Newcastle United follow him, while Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona are also in the picture to sign the teenager.
Manchester City signed Kevin De Bruyne from VfL Wolfsburg in 2015 and when asked if he wants to take the same route as his compatriot, Vermeeren explained: “I definitely think about things like that.
“Germany is very good for your physical health. The Serie A, that’s more tactics. In Spain it’s all about footballing ability, in England it’s about intensity… But there is no competition yet that I really prefer. It mainly depends on the teams.”
The Royal Antwerp star has explained the conditions that must be fulfilled for him to join another club.
“Well, in football you never know. I would like to stay at this club for the rest of my life. Okay, of course you want to take it a step further, but it is difficult to say when that will be possible. The puzzle must fit together,” the Belgian added.
“There are so many scenarios to take into account. Because suppose you sign somewhere and are rented out, but then the coach leaves. Then you suddenly find yourself with another coach who may not want you. We’ll see what happens. But I want to finish the season here anyway.”
