by Mark Bassey

Following the imminent departure of Thomas Vermaelen to Barcelona, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is set to name Mikel Arteta as his new captain, ahead of the 2014/2015 season.

The Gunners have reportedly agreed a 15m deal with the La Liga side, for the sale of their captain and according to reports in the British press, vice-captain Arteta is the leading candidate to replace him. Vermaelen was also vice-captain when Robin van Persie left for Manchester United in 2012.

Although Per Mertesacker is also an option for Wenger, the German defender will only be promoted to vice-captain.

Things could however change quickly, as Arteta’s future is still unclear, especially since the club has been reluctant to hand him a new deal, with the current one running out in 2012.

Arsenal travel to Turkey to play the first leg of their Champions League play-offs, against Besiktas on August 19.

ifreke

Ifreke Inyang is a public commentator and social media critic who has worked with a number of high profile publications across the country.