This was the only significant signing for Arsenal this summer.
But apart from signing a very good player the transfer was of interest because over time it helped highlight how Arsene Wenger made the books balance at Arsenal – something that was essential in these days of paying off the stadium debt.
At this time two players left Arsenal: Adebayor went to Manchester City for £25m on 20 July. He had cost just £3m three years earlier, and as a quick profit sale must rank alongside Anelka who moved from £250,000 to £25m also in three years. Three years after joining City he was told he was not part of their plans and could leave.
So a fine deal with Arsenal for a player who was already causing problems.
Nine days after taking Adebayor Manchester City also took Kole Toure for £16m. He had cost £150,000 in 2002.
In short Arsenal made £32m profit for those two players. In the case of Vermaelen he moved on to Barcelona for £17m – but remained injured for most of this time there.