Former Arsenal centre-back Thomas Vermaelen has spent the last three years injured and on the bench with Barcelona and Roma, respectively. However, the Belgian international may be on his way back to the Premier League, as West Brom are looking to sign him this summer.
The 31-year-old played just nine times last season for Roma as he spent the season on loan at the Serie A club from Barcelona. Five of those appearances were from the bench as injuries and form blighted his entire year.
Crystal Palace are also interested in bringing the player to Selhurst Park and could rival the Baggies in their attempt to sign the centre-back.
Vermaelen has only made seven league starts for Barcelona since leaving Arsenal in 2014. The Belgian’s contract with Barcelona won’t expire until 2019, but Vermaelen looks to have few playing options with the Spanish side.
In July, Ladbrokes released information on the betting trends for the Premier League title in 2017-18. West Brom came 20th of all Premier League sides.
Thomas Vermaelen 2016-17 key stats:
- 1 yellow card in nine Serie A matches
- 1.5 aerials won in nine Serie A matches
- Only 388 minutes played in Serie A