LONDON (Reuters) – Arsenal have signed Belgian defender Thomas Vermaelen from Ajax Amsterdam in a deal worth up to 12 million euros ($16.71 million), the Dutch club said in a statement yesterday.

"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," the 23-year-old Vermaelen said.

Manager Arsene Wenger added: "I have no doubt his arrival will strengthen our team. Thomas Vermaelen will be a huge asset to Arsenal."

n New Wigan Athletic manager Roberto Martinez has signed Espanyol's Spanish midfielder Jordi Gomez, the Premier League club said yesterday.

Gomez, 24, has signed a three-year deal but no fee has been announced.