Rumour: Arsenal line up Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic as potential Thomas Vermaelen replacement

Branislav Ivanovic

Arsenal are set to launch an ambitious bid to sign Chelsea full-back Branislav Ivanovic if Thomas Vermaelen completes his proposed transfer to Manchester United this summer, report the Metro.

The Gunners captain has grown disillusioned with life in north London having fallen down the pecking order in Arsene Wenger’s side due to the emergence of Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker.

With just one year left on his contract, the Belgian defender is set to be tempted to embark on a new challenge at Old Trafford.

However, Wenger is reportedly keen to find a replacement for Vermaelen until he sanctions the sale with Blues stalwart Ivanovic lined up as his replacement.

The Serbian’s future at Stamford Bridge is far from certain with his opportunities at centre-back limited and the threat of Cesar Azpilicueta.

Manager Jose Mourinho fielded the Spaniard on the left flank last season and could choose to switch him to the right to make way for a new addition, which could directly restrict Ivanovic’s game time.

Meanwhile, following Bacary Sagna’s decision to join Manchester City, Ivanovic would be guaranteed a starting berth in north London.

Arsenal believe that a bid of just £7 million could prise the 30-year-old to the Emirates, but he seems unlikely to make a move unless Chelsea deem him surplus to requirements.

Branislav Ivanovic won 69% of his aerial duels in the Premier League last season (118/171).