Atletico Madrid Close to Securing Deal for Arthur Vermeeren, Target of Barcelona and Arsenal

Introduction to the article:
Atletico Madrid’s imminent signing of Arthur Vermeeren from Royal Antwerp is generating excitement in the football world. The highly rated 18-year-old midfielder is set to make a move to the Spanish club, with the details of the deal expected to be finalized soon.

Deal in the Making

Atletico Madrid are putting the finishing touches on a deal to bring Arthur Vermeeren from Royal Antwerp. The 18-year-old midfielder is one of the most highly rated talents in Europe, but Los Rojiblancos have put money on the table before anyone else. Vermeeren arrived in Madrid on Thursday, and is set to be in the stands for their Copa del Rey quarter-final clash with Sevilla. The clubs have already agreed a €22m deal that could rise by a further €5m in variables.

Details to be Settled

A deal is not quite done between the player and the club, but it appears things are moving towards an agreement. With just the final details to be settled, the word is that it will be closed on Friday, with Vermeeren signing a five-and-a-half year deal at the Metropolitano.

Strategic Fit

Diego Simeone has been asking for a pivot since the summer, and while Vermeeren is perhaps not a natural fit for that role on his own, he can play in a two. More likely, Los Colchoneros see him as a potential long-term replacement for captain Koke Resurreccion, who is now 32.