Barca make first move for Vermaelen

Cape Town - Barcelona have taken the first step in the transfer battle with Manchester United over the signing of Thomas Vermaelen.

Read: Vermaelen wants out of Arsenal

Barcelona have made a bid to sign the player according to SkySports.

After failing to secure a spot as first choice centre back at Arsenal, the former club captain is now looking to leave the Emirates with both Barcelona and Manchester United eager to secure a deal for the experienced Belgian defender.

One of the most protracted transfer stories of this window, it now seems that Vermaelen's future will be quickly sorted out.

Barcelona have made a £10 million bid for Vermaelen, who they want to replace the retired Carles Puyol in the 2014/15 squad as the Catalan giants look to wrestle back the La Liga title from Atletico Madrid.

There has been no counter movement from the United camp according to reports.

Vermaelen has spent five seasons with Arsenal but has been plagued by various injuries throughout his career.

Did you read: Barca to battle United for defenders