Rumour: Arsenal will let Thomas Vermaelen go to Manchester United once they sign a new defender

Belgium's defender Thomas Vermaelen stretches during a training session in Mogi das Cruzes during the 2014 FIFA World Cup football tournament on June 14, 2014.

Arsenal are open to letting Thomas Vermaelen join Manchester United, but only if they sign a top defender before the departure of the Belgian.

Manchester United have been heavily linked with a move for Thomas Vermaelen after reports emerged earlier this week that they were set to make a bid. There were even reports that United would swap Tom Cleverley for Vermaelen’s services, however, that has since been dispelled.

According to the Daily Star, the 28-year-old defender is allowed to leave but only once the Gunners sign a capable replacement for him. The likes of Serge Aurier and Calum Chambers have been heavily linked with Arsene Wenger’s side, but he is looking for a top-class centre-back.

Thomas Vermaelen has gone from being one of the most important players in the squad to playing just a hand full of games last 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, helping the Gunners finish fourth in the Premier League. Vermaelen has found it difficult to reclaim his place, restricted mostly to cup appearances.