Watford firm favourites to sign former Arsenal ace from Barcelona
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A fans’ favourite during five years at Arsenal, things haven’t worked out too well for Thomas Vermaelen since his 2014 move to Barcelona. However, the defender could be set for a return to English football…with Watford.
The Hornets are just 11/10 to acquire the services of the centre-back, who is currently on loan at Roma, but looks highly unlikely to remain with the Serie A club – reportedly favouring a move back to England.
And the chances of him remaining at Barca beyond this summer also look slim. Injuries have played their part in limiting his game-time, but having managed just 21 appearances in three seasons, it’s clear he’s surplus to Luis Enrique’s requirements – fitness issues or not.
As for Watford, they currently have one of the Premier League’s leakier defences – so it’s no surprise to see Walter Mazzarri interested in the experienced Belgian, who is 11/10 to make Watford his next club.
Former club Arsenal are 11/2 second-favourites to snap up the 31-year-old, with West Ham United next in the betting at 6/1.
A return to boyhood side Ajax (8/1) is the most likely option were he to remain on the continent, while moves to Crystal Palace and Southampton are priced at 12s and 16s respectively.
However, our traders can’t see the Kapellen native risking the ire of Gooners by heading to North London rivals Tottenham, with 20/1 on offer for him to be unveiled as a Spurs player.
Thomas Vermaelen – Next Club
Watford – 11/10
Arsenal – 11/2
West Ham United – 6/1
Ajax – 8/1
Crystal Palace – 12/1
Southampton – 16/1
Tottenham – 20/1
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
