Arsenal Confirm Vermaelen Signing

Arsenal FC have confirmed the signing of Belgian International defender Thomas Vermaelen.

The 23 year old has joined Arsenal from Eredivise side Ajax on a long term contract for an undisclosed fee.

The former Ajax Club captain, after completing the move, said “Firstly, I have to say that I’m sad to be leaving Ajax and I would just like to thank everyone for their help and friendship towards me over the past eight years.”

Vermaelen made his first team debut for the Dutch club at just 18, after playing at Youth level for Belgian side KFC Germinal Beerschot.

Thomas, who is a central defender, gained experience in both the UEFA Cup and UEFA Champions League including two appearances against Arsenal in the 2005/06 Champions League Group Stages.

He has made 21 appearances for Belgium, and is a regular at the international level with his country, ever since making his full international debut in March 2006.

“Thomas is a great signing for Arsenal Football Club, and we are all delighted that he is joining us. Thomas is a solid performer with good experience of Champions League and UEFA Cup football and is also a regular with the Belgium national team”, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger told the club’s website.