In the latest transfer news, Arsenal has reportedly made an opening offer of £30 million to secure the services of Jurrien Timber, the talented Ajax defender.
The Dutch club initially demands £50 million for the 22-year-old, but negotiations are underway, and there is hope that a compromise can be reached, according to The Athletic.
Arsenal’s Defensive Woes and Pursuit of Depth
Last season, Arsenal faced significant challenges in their defense, which ultimately played a part in their inability to clinch the Premier League title, with Manchester City emerging as victors.
Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, recognizes the need to address this issue promptly by bolstering the squad with a versatile defender.
While the club is not actively seeking to replace their preferred back four from the previous season, they understand the importance of enhancing squad depth. In this pursuit, Jurrien Timber of Ajax emerges as an excellent option.
Jurrien Timber’s Rise and Attracting Interest
Since making his debut, Jurrien Timber has showcased his skills and potential, accumulating an impressive tally of 121 appearances for Ajax.
At just 22 years old, his performances have attracted attention not only from Arsenal but also from top English clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool.
Timber’s ability to play both as a right-back and center-back adds to his allure, making him an ideal candidate to strengthen Arsenal’s defensive line.
Transfer Negotiations and Optimism for a Deal
Negotiations between Arsenal and Ajax are still ongoing, with the clubs attempting to find common ground on the transfer fee.
While Ajax initially demands £50 million for Timber, there is a shared sense of optimism that a compromise can be reached.
Both parties understand the importance of the transfer and are motivated to finalize the deal. Personal terms have already been agreed upon, highlighting Timber’s eagerness to make the move to Arsenal.