Vermaelen’s injury opens door for Welshman.
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Arsenal are set to step up their pursuit of Swansea City centre back Ashley Williams this summer following Thomas Vermaelen’s back injury, Sky Sports reports.
The 28-year-old is believed to be a long time target of Arsene Wenger’s but interest had stalled when they were quoted £8 million if they wanted to land his services.
However, they may now be set to return with a renewed offer amidst fears that Vermaelen may spend an extended period out on the sidelines.
The Belgian international has been ruled out of the club’s pre-season tour of Asia because of the injury, and it seems likely he will miss the start of the new Premier League season.
Arsenal have suddenly found themselves shorthanded at the back recently after allowing Johan Djourou to join Hamburg on loan and releasing Sebastien Squillaci. That means that Wenger has just Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker as his only recognised centre backs.
Wenger is known to be keen on adding another one defender at least as he had been hoping to start the season with four centre backs,but he now may be forced to add another.
Wales national team captain Williams has established himself as one of the most sought after centre backs in the country after two solid seasons in the top flight with Swansea.
The Swans are bracing themselves for incoming bids for Williams, with the 28-year-old expected to jump at the chance of a switch to the Emirates Stadium and the chance to play in the UEFA Champions League.