Ajax defender Thomas Vermaelen is on Aston Villa's radar.

The 23-year old Belgian has made a name for himself in Holland but could be on his way to England if recent reports are correct.

Villa boss Martin O'Neill was in Holland on the weekend for the final match of the Eredivisie season to watch Vermaelen who he sees as a replacement for captain Martin Laursen, if he decides to retire at season's end.