Napoli closing in on Thomas Vermaelen deal?

Napoli expect to complete a deal to sign Belgian defender Thomas Vermaelen from Arsenal at the end of the season. A report from Italy suggests that Rafa Benitez's side will wrap up a 14 million Euro transfer for the centre back.

Vermaelen has slipped down the pecking order at the Gunners as Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker continue to play together at the heart of Arsenal's defence under Arsene Wenger.

Vermaelen has grown more frustrated this campaign after finding his first team opportunities limited and will now seek a transfer to Serie A to kick start his career.

Arsenal would like to retain the services of Vermaelen but also are ready to sell in order to generate funds for their ambitious summer transfer plans.