The Belgian international, 23, has signed a long-term contract with the Gunners after agreeing what was reported to be a £10million move from Ajax.

In capturing the six-foot centre-half, who can also play on the left, 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, meaning they will have to come through a play-off to reach the group stages of the Champions League.

Vermaelen has European experience with Dutch side Ajax, indeed he faced the Gunners during the 2005/2006 campaign.

Wenger is in no doubt of the qualities Vermaelen will bring to Emirates Stadium.

"Thomas is a solid performer with good experience of Champions League and UEFA Cup football and is also a regular with the Belgium national team," the Arsenal manager said.

"Thomas is primarily a left-footed centre-back, but he is multi-functional and can also play at left-back.

"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."

Vermaelen, meanwhile, 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 next season.

"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," Vermaelen said in an interview with www.arsenal.com.

"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 this is something I am looking forward to experiencing again with Arsenal."

Vermaelen added: "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."

Following Vermaelen's arrival, veteran William Gallas, who was missed the end of the season through injury, could now be allowed to leave.

Wenger, though, has only just started his summer rebuilding plan and is now likely to turn his attentions to bolstering the Arsenal midfield as well as the frontline.

Yaya Toure, brother of Arsenal defender Kolo, has been linked with the Gunners, who could yet renew their interest in Blackburn striker Roque Santa Cruz - although are likely to be priced out of the market by big-spending Manchester City.

Bordeaux president Jean-Louis Triaud has, meanwhile, denied a deal has been struck with the Gunners for Morocco striker Marouane Chamakh.