Arsenal set to accelerate interest to seal January move for Xavi's dream Sergio Busquets replacement

Arsenal are reportedly ready to accelerate their interest to seal a January move for Barcelona’s Sergio Busquets replacement.

During the summer transfer window, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta spent big on the likes of Kai Havertz, Declan Rice, Jurrien Timber and David Raya.

Arsenal have had a decent start to the Premier League season as they remain unbeaten and are currently sat in second place, two points behind leaders Tottenham Hotspur.

Ahead of the January transfer window, it has been reported that Arsenal are ready to seal a deal to sign Belgian star Arthur Vermeeren.

According to Spanish news outlet SPORT, Arsenal could wrap up the deal during the January window in what would be a huge blow for Barcelona manager Xavi.

It has been claimed that Xavi picked out Vermeeren as a key target due to his similarities with Busquets, who left to join Lionel Messi at MLS side Inter Miami in the summer.

The report claimed that the Emirates club are confident that the 18-year-old can adapt to Premier League football and are ready to pay €15 million for his signature.

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Vermeeren broke through to the first time at Belgian outfit Royal Antwerp and has made 53 appearances for the club.

Royal Antwerp’s director of football and former Arsenal man Marc Overmars to FCBN: “I do not have doubts that Vermeeren can play [for] Barca. Like Xavi and Iniesta… Vermeeren [has] the same profile.”

Whilst teammate Toby Alderweireld said: “He arrived in the team by force of circumstance, but since then he has learned very quickly.

“He reads the game very well, his potential is enormous. Have I seen this before? Rarely, I think.”

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