Arsenal are reportedly confident of signing Jurrien Timber from Ajax, with the versatile defender having expressed his desire to join the Gunners. The 22-year-old has been linked with a move to Manchester United over the past year, but it appears that Arsenal are now leading the race to secure his signature. Timber can play both centre-half and right-back, making him an ideal candidate for Mikel Arteta’s squad.
Negotiations with Arsenal
Speculation that United were ready to make a renewed effort to sign the Netherlands international intensified earlier this month when Timber was spotted attending the all-Manchester FA Cup final at Wembley. However, as it transpires, Timber was in London with his agent to conduct negotiations with Arsenal, according to De Telegraaf. Arsenal have already seen an opening offer of £30million rejected by Ajax, but they are set to return with an improved bid and are confident of agreeing a fee.
Bayern Munich are also said to have registered an interest, but Timber’s clear preference is Arsenal, who are close to reaching an agreement over personal terms. Arteta is keen to add Timber to his defensive options given his ability to play at both centre-half and right-back.
Defensive options
Ben White made the right-back position his own last season, but injuries to Takehiro Tomiyasu and William Saliba meant that Thomas Partey ended the campaign in that role. Both players are hopeful of returning in time for the start of the season, but with Cedric Soares and Rob Holding likely to depart, Arteta wants more options in that area of the pitch.
Timber’s ability on the ball and passing range makes him an ideal candidate for Arteta’s progressive side. The Arsenal manager has been keen to add another full-back to his squad with similar qualities to those of Oleksandr Zinchenko.
Other signings
The Gunners remain confident of also completing the signings of Kai Havertz and Declan Rice, despite having seen several bids for both players rejected by Chelsea and West Ham. The club is also reportedly willing to listen to offers for Eddie Nketiah and three other stars.
Conclusion
Arsenal’s pursuit of Jurrien Timber is gathering pace, with the Gunners confident of securing his signature. Timber’s versatility and ability on the ball make him an ideal candidate for Mikel Arteta’s squad, as the Arsenal manager looks to bolster his defensive options. The Gunners are also pursuing other targets, including Kai Havertz and Declan Rice, as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.