Barcelona have confirmed the signing of Belgian defender Thomas Vermaelen from Arsenal on a five-year deal.

Vermaelen, who will be unveiled to the media on Sunday, was at the Gunners for six years after joining from Ajax.

Manchester United had previously expressed an interest in the centre-back but reportedly pulled out of negotiations due to their refusal to consider a player swap deal with Arsenal.

Vermaelen made over 100 appearances for Arsenal.