Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen has plenty of interest from Italy, claims agent

Thomas Vermaelen: Attracting interest from Italy

A number of Italian clubs are chasing Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen’s signature in the summer transfer window, according to the Daily Star.

Thomas Vermaelen has gone from being one of the most important players in the squad to playing just fourteen league games this season. The Belgian international has found it extremely difficult to dislodge the formidable partnership of Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny.

Mertesacker and Koscielny have played a big part in the Gunners’ season, which sees them take on Hull City on Saturday in the FA Cup final as they look to win their first trophy in eight years, Vermaelen is a doubt for the FA Cup final with an injury.

Vermaelen has found it difficult to reclaim his place and has been restricted mostly to cup appearances. The Belgian is reportedly growing frustrated at a lack of playing time. Vermaelen, despite not playing much this season, was selected in the Belgium squad for the World Cup.

However, the time may have come for the Arsenal club-captain to move for pastures new with Italian outfit Napoli still holding an interest in the defender since January.

Vermaelen’s agent Alex Kroes says that a number of clubs from Italy have shown an interest.

He said: “Several Italian clubs have shown an interest.”