Barcelona confirm Thomas Vermaelen signing

Barcelona have confirmed the signing of Belgian defender Thomas Vermaelen from Arsenal on a five-year deal.

Vermaelen, who will be unveiled to the media on Sunday, was at the Gunners for six years after joining from Ajax.

Manchester United had previously expressed an interest in the centre-back but reportedly pulled out of negotiations due to their refusal to consider a player swap deal with Arsenal.

Agreement for T_Vermaelen05 to join FC Barcelona. More information: http://t.co/fg65RrHlI4 RT to welcome him! pic.twitter.com/jxCaGKlNq9

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 9, 2014

Vermaelen made over 100 appearances for Arsenal.