Thomas Vermaelen disappointed to see Robin van Persie leave Arsenal

Thomas Vermaelen has admitted his disappointment at Robin van Persie’s imminent transfer to Manchester United – but insists Arsenal can still challenge for the title.

The 29-year-old is set to be confirmed as a Manchester United player in the next 48 hours after the Red Devils agreed a £24m fee with the Gunners for the Dutch striker.

And centre-half Vermaelen, who signed a new long-term contract at The Emirates back in October, insists the north Londoners now have no choice but to move on.

“I’m disappointed because I wanted him to stay at the club,” Vermaelen told Sky Sports. “He was fantastic for us in the last year and scored a lot of goals.

“I’m disappointed he’s going but life goes on. We have to focus on next season with Arsenal and hopefully our squad is good enough to win something.

“Maybe they [Arsenal fans] will be disappointed because what he did for Arsenal over the the last year was amazing.”

Arsène Wenger has signed Lukas Podolski, Olivier Giroud and Santi Cazorla this summer – and Vermaelen is convinced Arsenal can mount a title challenge this season.

“We’ve brought some good players in. I’m really happy with the signings,” he added. “I’m confident we’ll be strong enough to compete for the title.”

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Read more on: Arsenal, Football transfers, Manchester United, Premier League, Robin van Persie, thomas vermaelen.