Manchester United are set to increase their offer for Arsenal centre-back Thomas Vermaelen, Goal understands.
United have held talks with Arsenal over the signing of the 28-year-old this summer, but saw enquiries regarding a £6 million bid knocked back by the Gunners.
The Old Trafford side are now hoping to convince Arsenal to part ways with Vermaelen with an improved offer closer to £10m, but are reluctant to negotiate further for the defender.
With Louis van Gaal now in charge, United are confident of persuading Vermaelen to make the move to Old Trafford should a bid be accepted.
Vermaelen is understood to be keen to find a new club after falling behind Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker in the pecking order at Arsenal.
But Arsene Wenger has stalled the sale of the Belgium centre-back while he lines up a replacement for the Gunners.
Vermaelen himself indicated his future at Arsenal is uncertain following Belgium’s elimination from the World Cup.
“I really do not know where I will play, Arsenal or elsewhere next season,” he said.
“All my attention went to the World Cup. I will see when I talk with Arsenal.”
Source: Goal