Arsenal back in for Swansea defender Ashley Williams as Thomas Vermaelen is ruled out for three months

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is to renew his interest in Swansea defender Ashley Williams as news that Belgium international will be out for up to three months with a  back problem.

Wenger has already been knocked back once by the Swans who have valued the Welsh international at £12 million.


Gunners boss Wenger believes the 28-year-old is worth nearer £10 million but the news of Vermaelen’s injury, a stress fracture in his lower back, may force the Frenchman’s hand.

Swansea boss Michael Laudrup is keen to hang on to Williams who has recently been confirmed as Swansea’s new team captain, taking over from long-serving defender Garry Monk.

The loss of Vermaelen leaves Wenger with just two recognised central defenders, Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker, after Sebastien Squillaci was released and Johan Djourou sent out on loan at Hamburg.

Williams has established himself as one of the best centre-backs in the country after two outstanding seasons in the top flight with the Swans and while the Welsh side will be keen to hang on to their star the prospect of Champions League football with the Gunners may be just too hard to resist for their new club skipper.