Thomas Vermaelen transfer latest: Manchester United remain confident of deal for Arsenal defender - whilst Wikipedia page has already changed

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Andrew Feinberg

White House Correspondent

Manchester United remain confident of securing the transfer of Thomas Vermaelen from Arsenal, according to reports.

The Belgium international has indicated his future is uncertain and has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford - so much so that a particularly eager Wikipedia editor has updated Vermaelen's profile to suggest he has already moved.

Louis van Gaal is desperate to add to his back line having seen long-time central pairing Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic depart for QPR and Inter Milan respectively.

Vermaelen is among numerous defenders linked with joining Van Gaal's revolution, along with Mats Hummels of Borussia Dortmund and Stefan de Vrij of Feyenoord.

Arsenal captain Vermaelen said earlier this summer that he wasn't sure where his long-term future lied having seen his place in the side become irregular due to the form of Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny at the centre of Arsenal's defence.

"There has been a lot of speculation, but I can't talk about it because I don't know what is going on," said the 28-year-old.

Reports today suggest United remain confident they can secure a deal for Vermaelen despite interest from Barcelona and a reluctance from Arsene Wenger to let him leave the Emirates before a suitable replacement is found.

Vermaelen has 12-months remaining on his contract having been at the club since 2009 after joining for around £9m from Ajax.