Arsenal FC today announced their first signing of the summer transfer window.
It is, as expected, the 23-year-old Belgian international and former Ajax skipper Thomas Vermaelen.
Vermaelen has been linked with the Gunners for the last number of weeks and has spoken of his joy at joining the North London side. With neither Arsene Wenger nor either club denying the claims, it always seemed a matter of when and not if.
The club's official website claim the deal to be "long term" and "undisclosed." However, many believe it to be a four-year contract worth in the region of £10 million.
As someone who is not too familiar with Dutch football, I contacted fellow Bleacher Report member Guido Merry to get as much information as possible about Vermaelen last week in view of an impending transfer.
"Vermaelen is a solid defender. Strong, tall, good in the air. His on the ball skills are also quite decent, but nothing spectacular. He has a decent pass too. He can play as a centre-back or as a wing-back. Personally, I believe his strengths are best applied in the centre. He is best when man-marking an opponent, whereas he lacks the pace to bomb forward down the wings as a wingback."
He continued: "Ajax don't really want to sell. Vermaelen has a lot of potential, so in a few years time, he will be even more expensive."
Former Dutch great Jaap Stam has also spoke of his admiration for the young Belgian.
Although I say young, it is in a good way, so fear not Arsenal fans.
At 23, he has plenty of experience under his belt both at the club and international level. It will be hoped that he can slot into the squad with relative ease.
Arsenal fans must wait to see if Vermaelen is at the club to create competition for places with the return of Phil Senderos or if there is to be a defensive exit from North London.
Unlike the protracted Samir Nasri transfer of last season, it is good to see Arsenal get a player in early and ready for preseason.
Hopefully one or two more signings will be coming our way shortly, and Arsenal can get back to winning ways.
Welcome to North London, Thomas Vermaelen. We can only hope your stay is a good one.
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