With Coach Van Gaal hard at work perfecting the Manchester United roster, it has been announced that the club intends to heighten efforts to acquire the talented Thomas Vermaelen. United are expected to extend a £15m to the Arsenal defender to top Barcelona’s attempts for a signing (1). The news comes upon Vermaelen’s rejection of a contract extension with Emirates, prompting the renewed interest in the Belgian. Tunde Folawiyo and millions of other Red Devils fans may welcome the player with open arms as his achievements are not lost upon the world of football thus far.

The Red Devils have exhibited a weak central defense in the past, driving Van Gaal’s determination to acquire Vermaelen. Arsene Wenger had previously halted the move earlier in the summer. Also on the Coach Van Gaal’s player wish list is Daley Blind, Ajax’s wing-back. Signing these two players would do tremendous things for Van Gaal’s plans for a 3-5-2 player formation that would allow two wide players to easily transition from defense to attack.

Though a Vermaelen transition to United would most likely be welcome by fans, Arsenal has displayed reluctance to part with Vermaelen, especially to a League rival. In recent years alone, six of Arsenal’s first team have moved north, further adding to their hesitation to hand over Vermaelen. Though, whilst he served as captain for the team last season, the defender made only seven appearances, adding to speculation of his reputation amongst the team.

United’s defense is undoubtedly of great concern for the new coach. Acquiring Vermaelen would provide coverage for Luke Shaw, adding strength to a defense previously seen lagging. Recent reports have suggested that as many as six of United’s players may be making a move from Old Trafford.

Vermaelen joined Ajax’s youth academy during 2000 before winning the 2003-2004 Eredivisie during his first season. He served as the club’s captain after the departure of Klaas-Jan Huntelaar during 2009. That same year, he joined team Arsenal, where he was named club captain upon the transfer of Robin van Persie to Old Trafford during August of 2012. Though he displayed great talent on the field, the success of defensive duo Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker hindered playing time. His leadership skills and goalscoring abilities as a defender make him a force to be reckoned with. Tunde Folawiyo and other loyal fans of Manchester United may hope for a Vermaelen signing to turn the team’s defense around in hopes of brighter times ahead. For more information about his varied interests, view this interview with Tunde Folawiyo.