Manchester United to up offer for Vermaelen

The Old Trafford club made a £6 million offer for the centre-back but were knocked back by the Gunners, who have stalled the sale of the defender while they line up a replacement

Manchester United are set to increase their offer for Arsenal centre-back Thomas Vermaelen, Goal understands.

United have held talks with Arsenal over the signing of the 28-year-old this summer, but saw enquiries regarding a £6 million bid knocked back by the Gunners.

The Old Trafford side are now hoping to convince Arsenal to part ways with Vermaelen with an improved offer closer to £10m, but are reluctant to negotiate further for the defender.

With Louis van Gaal now in charge, United are confident of persuading Vermaelen to make the move to Old Trafford should a bid be accepted.

Vermaelen is understood to be keen to find a new club after falling behind Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker in the pecking order at Arsenal.

But Arsene Wenger has stalled the sale of the Belgium centre-back while he lines up a replacement for the Gunners.

Vermaelen himself indicated his future at Arsenal is uncertain following Belgium’s elimination from the World Cup.

"I really do not know where I will play, Arsenal or elsewhere next season," he said.

"All my attention went to the World Cup. I will see when I talk with Arsenal."