Newcastle United are reportedly among a number of Premier League clubs eyeing up a move for Royal Antwerp midfielder Arthur Vermeeren this summer.
The Lowdown: Vermeeren impressing for Antwerp
The 18-year-old is making a big name for himself for his current club, already maturing into a key figure despite still being in his teenage years.
Vermeeren has made 10 appearances in the Jupiler Pro League this season, operating predominantly as a defensive midfielder and averaging 2.9 tackles per game.
Backed by PIF's massive wealth and with Champions League qualification a firm possibility, Newcastle could be set for a big-spending summer in the transfer market, which is where the Belgian comes into play.
The Latest: Newcastle eyeing Vermeeren move
According to The Daily Mail, the Magpies have 'watched' Vermeeren ahead of a potential move for him this summer, although they are not alone in expressing an interest.
Manchester United are also in the race to sign the 18-year-old, along with other unnamed Premier League clubs.
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The Verdict: Big prospect for the future
Vermeeren looks like a massive talent who has caught the eye at youth level, winning 10 caps for Belgium's under-17s and three for their under-18s.
Midfield could be a priority position for Eddie Howe in the summer following the deadline day exit of Jonjo Shelvey to Nottingham Forest, which has left them lacking depth in that area of the squad, and the Antwerp starlet would be viewed as a long-term addition who can learn from the likes of Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton.
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Vermeeren's aforementioned average of 2.9 tackles per match this season is superior to any Newcastle player in the Premier League, with Joelinton leading the way at St James' Park with 2.5 per game, so the Belgian could add plenty of steel in the middle of the park on Tyneside.
He has been hailed as 'fantastic' by team-mate Toby Alderweireld in recent days and he could be part of the continued rebuild at Newcastle, potentially becoming a dominant figure in black and white.