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The Belgian international has never played professional in his native country
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LECHT HIM COME HOME

Anderlecht join West Brom in race for Barcelona’s ex-Arsenal captain Thomas Vermaelen this summer

The in-demand defender could be set for a move back to his homeland, despite interest from a number of Premier League clubs

BELGIAN champions Anderlecht have been linked with a move for Barcelona defender Thomas Vermaelen, according to reports.

West Brom have also made the 31-year-old a top target this summer as the Baggies' quest for a centre-back continues.

 The Belgian international has never played professionally in his native country
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The Belgian international has never played professionally in his native countryCredit: Getty - Contributor
 Baggies boss Tony Pulis is scrambling for the Belgian's signature
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Baggies boss Tony Pulis is scrambling for the Belgian's signatureCredit: PA:Press Association

Following his loan spell with Roma last term, Anderlecht have approached Barcelona regarding a deal for the defender - according to Sport.

The former Arsenal skipper has emerged as a target for West Brom following their unsuccessful pursuit of Ben Gibson.

However, the Belgian outfit are able to offer him Champions League football and a return to his homeland.

Anderlecht are looking to bolster their defensive options after losing Bram Nuytinck to Udinese.

Everton, Watford and Crystal Palace have also voiced their interest in the Belgium international.

The defender has made only 21 appearances for Barcelona since joining the Spanish giants in 2014 for £15million from the Gunners.

 The 31-year-old made 12 appearances in all competitions for Roma last season
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The 31-year-old made 12 appearances in all competitions for Roma last seasonCredit: Getty - Contributor
 Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde has included Vermaelen within his pre-season side
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Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde has included Vermaelen within his pre-season sideCredit: Splash News

The defender has featured for Barcelona's pre-season side, including their triumphant 3-2 win against rivals Real Madrid.

Vermaelen still has two years left on his contract with the Catalans, but he has expressed his desire to leave.

He has been capped 58 times for the Belgium national side.

 The centre-back joined Arsenal from Ajax in 2009 for a fee of around £10.8million
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The centre-back joined Arsenal from Ajax in 2009 for a fee of around £10.8millionCredit: Getty - Contributor


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