Man Utd Transfers: 5 Left-Backs Van Gaal Must Consider To Replace Evra

2. Thomas Vermaelen

Alastair Grant/AP/Press Association ImagesThomas Vermaelen could be a shrewd signing by Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal this summer. United have been linked with the out-of-favour Arsenal defender for much of the summer and now, with Patrice Evra set to move on, he could turn out to be a sensible signing by the club. Usually a centre-back by trade, Vermaelen can also play at left-back if required, and would give the Red Devils much-needed versatility in defence. With Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic also leaving the club earlier this summer, United need a new centre-half, a position Vermaelen could play in, while also stepping in as a fullback should Luke Shaw become injured. It would be a deal that would allow United to kill two birds with one stone, and is one that makes a lot of sense. Moreover, the Belgian is surplus to requirement at the Emirates, after making only 14 appearances for the Gunners last season - of which seven were from the substitutes' bench. Arsenal would probably only ask for around £10 million, meaning United wouldn't have to break the bank to solve their recent left-back crisis.