Arsenal join Tottenham in race for Ajax starlet

Arsenal are reportedly set to have a bidding war with arch rivals Tottenham Hotspur for the signing of Ajax defender Joel Veltman this summer, according to The Metro.

The report claims that the North London duo will go head to head for the services of the Netherlands international this summer, as they look to solve their defensive frailties.

 

The Gunners look set to lose Thomas Vermaelen at the end of the season, as he is unhappy in playing back-up to the central defensive partnership of Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscienly.

 

The signing of Veltman could be seen as a long-term option, and would provide sufficient cover in the central-half department, should injuries prevail.

 

Veltman has made 34 appearances for Ajax this campaign.