Ben Guest
West Bromwich Albion’s search for a new centre back continues, and they have now been linked with a move for Barcelona defender Thomas Vermaelen.
The former Arsenal defender has had a torrid time since transferring to the Nou Camp in 2014. His time in Spain has been plagued by injuries which have restricted him to 21 appearances for the Catalan club, including a solitary 63 minute debut during the final game of the 2014/15 season.
The Belgian spent last summer on loan at Italian giants Roma, where he once again only made a paltry 12 appearances. Roma had an option to buy Vermaelen included in his loan deal from Barcelona, an option in which they have declined.
However, he could be set for a return to the Premier League, with West Bromwich Albion being linked with a move for the 31-year-old.
Tony Pulis has been linked with a number of central defenders this summer, including Manchester United’s Chris Smalling and Middlesbrough’s Ben Gibson. However the Daily Mirror, now claim that Vermaelen is also on his list of transfer targets.