Arsenal Eyeing Jurrien Timber for Versatile Role
Arsenal have submitted an opening bid of £30million for Ajax star Jurrien Timber as manager Mikel Arteta looks to add the Dutchman to his squad. The defender, a Netherlands international, has two years remaining on his deal in Amsterdam and is keen on a move to the Premier League.
Valued at £50m, Arteta has grander plans for the Dutchman at the Emirates than just a long-term centre back partner for William Saliba. The Telegraph claim Arteta feels Timber can provide the right hand side of Arsenal’s defence with the tactical flexibility that Oleksandr Zinchenko has given on the left.
Timber’s Preferred Position
Timber’s favoured position is centrally but he’s played plenty of matches for Ajax as a right-back and his speed, ability to step into midfield and passing range has been impressive. Arteta played Thomas Partey as an inverted right-back towards the end of the season but the move didn’t pay off in a defeat against Nottingham Forest.
Timber is a more natural fit and more defensively-minded than Partey, which appeals to Arteta. The Dutchman’s ability to play at centre-back, right-back and even defensive midfield, appeals to Arteta as Arsenal gear up to play Champions League football for the first time in seven years.
Why Arsenal are Interested in Timber
Arsenal are interested in Timber due to his versatility and defensive prowess. His speed and ability to step into midfield make him an ideal fit for Arteta’s system, while his defensive abilities make him a great fit for the right hand side of Arsenal’s defence.
The Gunners are also keen on Timber due to his experience in the Champions League. He has been a key player for Ajax in their run to the semi-finals of the competition this season and his experience could be invaluable for Arsenal as they look to make an impact in Europe next season.
Conclusion
Arsenal are hopeful of completing a deal to sign Ajax star Jurrien Timber after submitting an initial £30million bid for the Dutchman. The defender, a Netherlands international, has two years remaining on his deal in Amsterdam and is keen on moving to the Premier League.
Arteta is looking to add Timber to his squad due to his versatility and defensive prowess. His speed and ability to step into midfield make him an ideal fit for Arteta’s system, while his defensive abilities make him a great fit for the right hand side of Arsenal’s defence. His experience in the Champions League could also be invaluable for Arsenal as they look to make an impact in Europe next season.