Arsenal want Chris Smalling as part of the Thomas Vermaelen deal
The Gunners are finally opening up to the possibility of allowing club captain Vermaelen to leave for United, but only if Smalling is included in the deal.
The Metro reports that Arsene Wenger is unwilling to part with the 28-year-old unless he can find an alternative in defence for his skipper.
Smalling has failed to truly impress at the Theatre of Dreams, but having already lost Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic this summer it remains to be seen whether another centre-back will be allowed to leave.