Barcelona are weighing up the situation of Thomas
Vermaelen, with a reported view to a summer bid.
Arsenal centre-back Thomas Vermaelen is on the shortlist
of Barcelona as they seek a long-term replacement for Carles Puyol.
David Luiz is claimed to be their number one choice, but
with Chelsea currently reluctant to sell and quoting a price of 35 million, it
makes sense for La Liga champions to consider alternatives.
According to Spanish newspaper Marca that is what they
have done, whittling it down to three.
On their shortlist is Real Sociedad defender Inigo
Martinez, Porto's Eliaquim Mangala, and Arsenal's out of favour Thomas
Vermaelen.
The paper report: "Vermaelen is one of the players
who has been linked to Barcelona since it embarked on the search for a centre
back two seasons ago. Since then, the club has remained interested in this
Gunners player and the club's technical department likes him a lot."
They go onto add that Vermaelen recently commented he
wants to stay at the Gunners, but the reality is if he does not find his way
into the first team by the end of the season, a move to a club as glamorous at
Barcelona will appeal.
