Russian giants Zenit Saint Petersburg are looking to snatch Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen away from the Emirates as they still have about 23 days to purchase target players.

Once a prominent figure in the first-team, the Belgian is no longer regarded as a priority to anchor the back-line, with injuries and teammates' better performances to blame.

Vermaelen, whose World Cup spot is at risk because of his limited appearances - 11 games in total - for the Gunners this campaign, may be considering moving away from north London temporarily to earn game time.

He is currently the captain of his national team, but performing to his utmost potential, come the second week of June, is a different story.

Zenit have the resources to lure the Premier League club into a deal, while presenting opportunities to convince the 28-year-old to make a move, but it may all boil down to the decision of Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger, who sees the former Ajax man as a vital part of his squad in their quest for the Premiership title, on whether he will agree or, at least, listen to any proposal for his back-up centre-back.

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