Wenger drops hint on Vermaelen's destination as Barcelona and United battle for the defender

Although reports have it that Manchester United are in the chase for Arsenal Captain Thomas Vermaelen, but Manager Arsene Wenger has revealed that he would prefer to sell to a club abroad and not England.

This comes after it was reported that the London club has received an official bid of £10m from Spanish Club Barcelona on Thursday.

"Yes… I can't tell you [who they are from], but you will know very soon," said the Arsenal manager.

"I've said since the start of pre-season that Thomas could leave us because he needs to play now. He had an outstanding attitude and behaviour but he's in a position where it's difficult to stand in his way if he finds an interesting opportunity.

"Ideally yes [I would rather sell Vermaelen abroad]. It is an option. I don’t want to tell you [which clubs are interested] but we have offers from abroad as well."

Wenger however refused to drop a hint on names of possible replacements for the Belgian after his departure but made it clear that the club is still open for business.