Arsenal Skipper Thomas Vermaelen Silent on Manchester United Link

Arsenal captain Thomas Vermaelen has refused to be drawn on speculation regarding his future after being linked with a shock move to Manchester United.

The formidable partnership of Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker in the Gunners' backline has kept the Belgium international benched since the end of last season, having made just three Premier League appearances this campaign.

Arsene Wenger refused to listen to offers for Vermaelen during the January transfer window amid keen interest from Napoli but his future at the Emirates is likely to come under more scrutiny this summer when he will enter the final year of his contract.

Recent reports have suggested United boss David Moyes is considering making Arsenal skipper his replacement for Nemanja Vidic who will join Inter Milan at the end of the season. However Vermaelen has refused to discuss his future for the time being.

"It makes no sense to take about it now," Vermaelen told Het Laatste Nieuws. "I have learned to make no-long term plans, so I won't say anything."

The defender's agent Kees Vos indicated earlier this year that his client has already informed the Arsenal boss of his decision to leave the club at the end of the season, but adding to Vermaelen's recent comments he said: "We can't say anything on the matter."

Vermaelen started in Arsenal's FA Cup quarter final win over Everton on Saturday and could retain his place in the starting line up in Tuesday's second leg Champions League clash with Bayern Munich.

Laurent Koscielny has returned to the squad after suffering an injury on international duty but Wenger has confirmed that Vermaelen could start at left back. First choice option Kieran Gibbs is unavailable through injury with Nacho Monreal also ruled out and the Belgian is the Arsenal manager's only other alternative on the left side of defence.

Jack Wilshere and Theo Walcott are long term absentees while the trip to Munich has come too soon for Aaron Ramsey, who is nearing his return after being ruled out since Boxing Day.