Following their successful acquisitions of Kai Havertz and Declan Rice, Arsenal Football Club is now on the verge of unveiling their third contract signing. Arsenal and Ajax have verbally agreed on a transfer fee of £36.5 million, rising to £40.5 million, for highly-rated Dutch defender Jurrien Timber. This substantial investment showcases Arsenal’s determination to strengthen their squad and compete at the highest level.
After facing initial rejection with a £30 million bid last week, Arsenal made an improved offer for Jurrien Timber on Monday. The young Dutch defender, a product of Ajax’s renowned academy, expressed his desire to move, leading to both clubs actively seeking an agreement. Although Ajax valued Timber at £50 million, their willingness to negotiate has allowed Arsenal to secure the highly-rated defender.
Alongside securing Kai Havertz for £65 million, Arsenal has also set their sights on another priority target, Declan Rice, with a proposed fee of £105 million. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, aims to complete these major deals ahead of the upcoming pre-season, which is scheduled to begin next week. This wholesale revamp of the squad follows Arsenal’s impressive Premier League title charge that narrowly fell short. Arteta is determined to challenge league champions Manchester City in the upcoming season.
While Bayern Munich was initially considered Arsenal’s primary rival for Timber’s signature, their interest dwindled in the face of Arsenal’s strong bid. It is believed that Arsenal and Timber held talks in London before the FA Cup final, with the player expressing his preference for a move to the Emirates Stadium.
Jurrien Timber’s versatility in defence, excelling as both a centre-back and right-back, makes him a valuable addition to Arsenal’s starting XI. His potential arrival could coincide with possible moves for Rob Holding and Kieran Tierney. Tierney, who has attracted interest from former club Celtic as well as Manchester City and Newcastle, is being earmarked for a potential return to Scotland. Meanwhile, Holding is reportedly in talks with Turkish Super Lig outfit Besiktas for a potential loan move.
With the imminent signing of Jurrien Timber for a fee of £40.5 million, Arsenal continues to demonstrate their commitment to strengthening their squad for the upcoming season. The successful acquisitions of Kai Havertz, Declan Rice, and now Timber showcase Arsenal’s ambition to challenge for top honors in the Premier League and the Champions League. As fans eagerly await the official announcement, the anticipation builds for Arsenal’s revamped lineup, ready to take on their rivals in the quest for silverware.