Thomas Vermaelen nearing Barcelona return

Barcelona centre-back Thomas Vermaelen is closing on a return to fitness.

The Belgian international, who joined Barca from Arsenal earlier this month, has been unable to feature for his new side in pre-season due to a muscular injury.

However, a statement from the Catalan outfit has revealed that the defender is now back on the training pitch and has been undergoing individual sessions.

Barcelona open their La Liga challenge at home to Elche on Sunday evening.