Reports over the last few weeks have persistently implied that Arsenal stalwart Thomas Vermaelen is on his way out of the club this summer – probably to Manchester United.
After starting his career at Arsenal so well that he was made captain, the now celebrated partnership of Mertesacker and Koscielny began in his absence due to injury and he’s found them impossible to shift over the last 12 months.
It’s a tough one for Arsenal fans to take. Vermaelen is a very popular figure with fans and they would mainly want him to stay but understand that a player of his age and profil cannot sit on the bench any longer.
We think that Arsene should have rotated the three of them more but it may well have now reached the point of no return for the 28 year old Belgian.
Reports today suggest that Arsenal have lined up a replacement should Vermaelen depart. The Metro says:
Arsenal are interested in Olympiacos defender Kostas Manolas and could move for the 23-year-old of Thomas Vermaelen departs this summer.
The Gunners are prepared to lose club captain Vermaelen, with his contract running out and Manchester United offering £10million for his services.
The 6ft 1in centre back has been a revelation since he joined Greece’s preeminent club n 2012 and have played 13 times for Greece.
He would reportedly cost in the region of £8m.
Let’s see him in action. Arsenal fans: should the club find a place in the team for Vermaelen or is it time to let him go?
CLICK FOR MANOLAS
