'I will give everything for this club'.

Byline: Jim van Wijk 

THOMAS VERMAELEN is convinced he has joined a club going places after becoming Arsenal's first signing of the summer.

The Belgian international defender, aged 23, has signed a long-term contract with the Gunners after agreeing on a reported pounds 10m move from Ajax.

Manager Arsene Wenger has moved quickly to strengthen a squad which was often exploited at the back last season, when Arsenal eventually recovered some consistency to finish in fourth place. The Gunners face a play-off to reach the group stages of the Champions League, but Vermaelen is in no doubt of just what his new club - who were knocked out at the semi-final stage of both the FA Cup and in Europe - can achieve.

"Everything is set up for Arsenal to be very successful for years to come and I joined this club because I know Arsenal will be challenging for trophies," said Vermaelen.

Arsenal are a great club with a world class manager, high quality players and a fantastic stadium..

I have had a good taste of the Champions League during my time with Ajax and it's something I am looking forward to experiencing again with Arsenal." Vermaelen, who captained Ajax last season and played against the Gunners in the 2005/2006 European campaign, said: "I am also looking forward to playing in the English Premier League, which for me is the best league in the world. I just want to assure the Arsenal fans that I will give everything for this club and I hope we can enjoy winning some trophies together next season." Wenger was keen to add to his defensive options, depleted by injury to veteran William Gallas, who may now be allowed to leave the Emirates.

The boss is confident Vermaelen will add steel.

"He is strong technically with a positive winner's attitude and I have no doubt his arrival will strengthen our team. Thomas Vermaelen will be a huge asset to Arsenal," said Wenger..

CAPTION(S):

COMMITTED Thomas Vermaelen.