Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes Vermaelen, 23, can be the solution to the defensive problems which plagued his side for much of last season.

'Thomas is a great signing for Arsenal Football Club, and we are all delighted that he is joining us,' Wenger said. 'Thomas is a solid performer with good experience of Champions League and Uefa Cup football and is also a regular with the Belgium national team.

'Thomas is primarily a left-footed centre-back, but he's multi-functional and can also play at left back. He is strong technically with a positive winner's attitude and I have no doubt his arrival will strengthen our team.

Thomas Vermaelen will be a huge asset to Arsenal.'

Although Arsenal didn't reveal the transfer fee or the length of his contract, Vermaelen is reported to have cost around 10 million pounds (S$24 million).

'Arsenal Football Club is delighted to announce that Belgian international defender Thomas Vermaelen has joined the Gunners from Dutch Eredivisie side Ajax on a long-term contract for an undisclosed fee,' a statement on the club's website confirmed.

Vermaelen, who won the Dutch league with Ajax in 2004, was the Amsterdam club's captain last season and has made 21 appearances for the Belgium national team.

'I'm just so happy to be joining Arsenal. This is a great club with a world-class manager, high quality players and a fantastic stadium,' he said.

'Everything is set up for Arsenal to be very successful for years to come and I joined this club because I know Arsenal will be challenging for trophies.

'I have had a good taste of the Champions League during my time with Ajax and this is something I am looking forward to experiencing again with Arsenal.

'I'm also looking forward to playing in the English Premier League, which for me, is the best league in the world. Also, I just want to assure the Arsenal fans that I will give everything for this club and I hope we can enjoy winning some trophies together next season.' -- AFP