Man Utd to step up pursuit for Thomas Vermaelen

Manchester United are reportedly ready to double their initial bid of £6m for Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen, according to The Express.

The Red Devils boss Louis van Gaal is understood to be keen on finding a top-class replacement for Nemanja Vidic, who left the club for Inter Milan earlier this summer.

The Express reports that the Mancunian outfit will make a fresh offer of around £12m for Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen, who is believed to be considering his options during the summer transfer window.

However, manager Arsene Wenger is unlikely to allow the 28-year-old to move to Old Trafford until the club finds a suitable replacement.