West Brom have joined Crystal Palace in the race to sign Barcelona defender Thomas Vermaelen.

The 31-year-old, who captained Arsenal, was loaned out to Roma last season and made just nine appearances.

And he is not in Nou Camp chief Ernesto Valverde’s plans.

Vermaelen, who has two years left on his Barcelona deal, has been plagued by injuries throughout his career.

MORE: Klopp warns Liverpool midfielder after Crystal Palace horror tackles

The Belgium international joined the Spanish giants in 2014, but has been unable to hold down a regular starting spot.

And numerous reports say West Brom boss Tony Pulis wants to bring Vermaelen to the Hawthorns.

Pulis is light on centre-halves following the departure of long-serving player Jonas Olsson, and star man Jonny Evans is being linked with Leicester.

Palace are also tracking Vermaelen. It is understood that he is keen on a return to the Premier League.