Arsenal has made the signing of 23-year-old defender, Tomas Vermaelen, official. The former Ajax captain has joined the club on a long term contract for an undisclosed fee (rumoured to be around £10 million).

He has been part of the Ajax set up since 2001, giving him plenty of experience in the Champions League as well. The signing is the first of the summer for Arsenal and will strengthen the squad without a doubt.

Vermaelen is primarily a central defender who can play in the left back position as well. In a short interview he said,


“I’m just so happy to be joining Arsenal. This is a great Club with a world class manager, high quality players and a fantastic stadium. Everything is set up for Arsenal to be very successful for years to come and I joined this Club because I know Arsenal will be challenging for trophies.

“I have had a good taste of the Champions League during my time with Ajax and this is something I am looking forward to experiencing again with Arsenal. I’m also looking forward to playing in the English Premier League, which for me, is the best league in the world. Also, I just want to assure the Arsenal fans that I will give everything for this Club and I hope we can enjoy winning some trophies together next season.”

Arsenal's new signing will take part in the preseason training and will look to establish himself in the Gunners back line.