Jurrien Timber Set to Join Arsenal After Rejecting Bayern Munich Approach
Arsenal are on the brink of signing Ajax defender Jurrien Timber this summer, with the Dutchman having rejected an approach from Bayern Munich. The Gunners have returned with an improved bid and are now confident of reaching an agreement with Ajax for a fee of around £40m.
Timber’s Intentions
Reports in the Netherlands suggest that Timber is intent on joining Arsenal and has instructed his management team to thank Bayern Munich for their interest but make it clear that he is not prepared to make the move to the Bundesliga this summer. This has led to Bayern dropping their efforts to sign Timber and they will not pursue a deal unless Arsenal end their negotiations with Ajax.
Manchester United’s Attempts
It remains to be seen whether Arsenal will get a clear run at signing Timber following Manchester United’s attempt to sign the 22-year-old last summer. United held talks with Ajax but were unable to reach an agreement, despite Erik ten Hag being keen on bringing the defender to Old Trafford.
Timber’s Comments
When asked about his future earlier this month, Timber indicated that he was expecting to leave Ajax this summer. ‘Unfortunately, I can’t say much about it yet,’ the defender said. ‘I don’t mean there’s nothing going on, but I can’t tell you anything yet.’
Conclusion
It appears that Jurrien Timber is set to join Arsenal this summer after rejecting an approach from Bayern Munich. The Gunners have returned with an improved bid and are now confident of reaching an agreement with Ajax for a fee of around £40m. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United will make a late attempt to sign the defender, but for now it looks like Arsenal are in pole position to secure the signing of the highly-rated Dutchman.