Transfers: Wenger admits Verm could go
Arsene Wenger has admitted that reported Manchester United target Thomas Vermaelen could leave Arsenal.
United manager Louis van Gaal is reportedly an admirer of the 27-year-old Belgian and is in the market for central defenders following the departures of Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand.
With speculation swirling over a potential move for Vermaelen, Wenger has admitted that his former captain could depart from the Emirates.
The Frenchman said: "It (a move) could happen, yes it's a possibility that he goes. If he goes we have to replace him because he's an important player in our squad.
"I expect him to stay but he, of course, did not play enough games last year. For me he's a very important player but I couldn't guarantee him the games he wanted last year."
One player who has left Arsenal is right-back Carl Jenkinson, who will spend the upcoming season on loan at West Ham United.
The former Charlton man was facing stiff competition at the Emirates following the arrivals of Mathieu Debuchy and Calum Chambers.
While the 22-year-old had no shortage of Premier League suitors, Jenkinson opted to join Sam Allardyce's side at Upton Park, saying that "West Ham was always the place I wanted to go".
Crystal Palace have received a defensive boost after landing veteran centre-back Brede Hangeland on a free transfer.
The towering Norwegian international was released by Fulham after their relegation to the Championship and has signed for the Eagles on a one-year deal.
Speaking to Palace's official website, the 33-year-old said: "All the people I spoke to told me that's what's going on at Crystal Palace and I really wanted to be a part of that.
"It's a traditional club with a big following. I thought the atmosphere here was fantastic and obviously the fans had a lot to be happy about come the end of the season."
Sources: PA Sport, BBC
Get The New Paper on your phone with the free TNP app. Download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store now
