Wenger Keen On Man Utd Duo As Arsenal Propose Defender Swap Deal

The summer transfer window is now open for business and it’s expected to be a busy few weeks as managers strengthen their squads ahead of next season, so we’ll bring you all the latest news and gossip. Today, Arsenal are keen on two Man Utd defenders in exchange for Thomas Vermaelen.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger wants either Phil Jones or Chris Smalling PLUS some cash from Manchester United in exchange for Thomas Vermaelen this summer, according to reports today.

The Belgian defender has been forced to sit on the sidelines for much of the last 18 months after losing his place in Wenger’s starting eleven mid-way through the 2012/13 season following a disastrous display away at Tottenham.

This lack of regular action is expected to see the 28-year-old leave the Emirates this summer and as the defender has just entered the final year of his contract, the Gunners will be forced to cash-in rather than risk losing him for nothing in 12 months time.

Manchester United have been strongly linked with a move over the past few weeks and have already seen one approach rejected last month, but are confident they will eventually get their man as they believe Vermaelen wants to move to Old Trafford.

New boss Louis van Gaal is on the look out for an experienced centre-back after seeing both Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic leave this summer and Vermaelen would fit the bill nicely.

United are believed to be lining-up an improved offer worth £10m, and while that could be tempting for Arsenal considering the player is in the last 12 months of his contract, the Mirror claim that Wenger wants either Phil Jones or Chris Smalling plus some cash in exchange for Vermaelen.

This way, the Frenchman would have a ready-made replacement and Arsenal were previously linked with both Jones and Smalling before they moved to Old Trafford.

READ MORE –> Arsenal transfer news | Man Utd transfer news

It remains to be seen whether van Gaal will be prepared to let either player leave but given his lack of options in central defence, it would be a surprise, so a straight cash deal remains the most likely outcome.