Rumour: Arsenal reject Manchester United’s bid for Thomas Vermaelen

Arsenal captain Thomas Vermaelen may stay at the Emirates

Arsenal have rejected Manchester United’s bid for their club captain Thomas Vermaelen and could now offer the centre-back a new contract this summer, report the Mirror.

The 28-year-old has just one year remaining on his current deal with the north Londoners and was widely expected to seek an exit after falling down the pecking order due the emergence of Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker.

However, despite his poor form and lack of game time, new Red Devils boss Louis van Gaal is reportedly keen to bring the Belgium international to Old Trafford as the Dutchman plans an overhaul of his defensive options.

But Gunners manager Arsene Wenger is now reluctant to sell to a direct rival having been heavily criticised following the departure of Robin van Persie two years ago.

United are believed to be some way off of Arsenal’s valuation for the centre-back and will have to return with an improve offer if they are to convince Wenger to sell.

But with Vermaelen unsettled at the Emirates, if Wenger blocks the proposed transfer the defender will be unlikely to commit his future to the club and could leave on a free transfer.

Vermaelen was injured in Belgium’s clash against Russia, with the knee complaint surely set to have an impact on his club future as well his immediate prospects in Brazil.

Thomas Vermaelen started just seven games for Arsenal in the Premier League last season.