Arsenal Football Club have unveiled the purchase of their long-term target Jurrien Timber, who joined from Ajax on a long-term contract. The Dutch international becomes Arsenal’s second signing following the arrival of Kai Havertz from Chelsea early this summer.
Timber, who is capable of playing in any role in the defence line, has been targeted as back up for any of Arsenal’s starting defenders in case of injury or could make his way directly into the first team should his performance be convincing enough to head coach Mikel Arteta.
In the just concluded Eredivisie season, the 22-year-old defender played a vital role in Ajax’s 2022-23 Dutch title triumph, making 47 appearances with 4 goals contribution to his name—in his entire seasons with the Amsterdam club, Timber was capped 121 times, winning the Dutch League twice and the Dutch Cup.
Sporting Director Edu said: “We are very happy to bring Jurrien to Arsenal. He is a player that we have admired for a long time, so it’s a credit to everyone in our team that made this happen.
“Jurrien is a young talented international player, who fits our vision of competing with a young strong squad. I know Jurrien cannot wait to get started and we’re really hoping that he will be a great success here for many years.”
Manager Mikel Arteta added: “We’re excited that Jurrien has joined us. He is a versatile young defender, who will fit into our system and provide our squad with so much added quality.
“Jurrien is a young player but has already achieved so much. He has experienced what it’s like to go to a major international tournament on more than one occasion, as well as the trophies he has won with Ajax. We look forward to welcoming and integrating Jurrien into the squad.”
Arsenal have also disclosed that the defender will wear the number 12 jersey.
Three Lions midfielder Declan Rice is also expected to join the London side in a British transfer record as a replacement for Granit Xhaka who has departed the club.
Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey’s future at the club is also uncertain as he has been heavily linked to clubs outside England.