Gunners wants a United player in exchange if Vermaelen does move to Old Trafford.
Manchester United’s opening offer for Arsenal captain Thomas Vermaelen has been rejected, according to the Daily Star.
The Red Devils are keen to bring the 28-year-old Belgium star to Old Trafford, but their official bid fell way below Arsenal’s asking price.
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is keen to keep Vermaelen and would like him to sign a new contract at the Emirates Stadium – his current deal expires next summer.
Nevertheless, Wenger may consider a second bid from United, but he is likely to demand a player in a part-exchange deal.
New United manager Louis van Gaal, who is currently in charge of the Netherlands at the FIFA World Cup in Brazil, is apparently undecided whether to lodge a second offer for Vermaelen.
The Dutchman is said to be keeping tabs on him, with a view to bidding again if he fails to sign a new contract in the coming weeks.
Vermaelen started just seven Premier League games last season. He is behind Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker in the defensive pecking order at the North London club.
Although Vermaelen recently dismissed rumours linking him with a move to Old Trafford, it is thought that he may well consider a move if Arsenal were to accept a bid for his services.