Arsenal makes £30m bid for Ajax’s highly-rated Dutch defender

Arsenal has made a bid, reportedly around £30m, for Jurrien Timber, the highly regarded Netherlands defender who plays for Ajax Amsterdam.

Numerous Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, have been linked with the 22-year-old player.

Although Timber still has two years remaining on his current contract, Ajax is believed to be seeking a fee higher than £30m. However, it is expected that personal terms will not pose an issue if an agreement on the transfer fee can be reached.

Arsenal, who finished second in the Premier League last season, are optimistic about finalizing the deal. Nevertheless, Bayern Munich and other clubs have also expressed interest in signing the player during this summer transfer period.

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Timber had an impressive season at Ajax, making 47 appearances across all competitions. He notably featured in all six of their Champions League group-stage matches. His contributions helped Ajax secure the Eredivisie title in 2021 and 2022.

The Netherlands international has accumulated 15 caps for his national team and participated in four matches during the 2022 World Cup, as the Dutch team progressed to the quarter-finals.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is eager to bolster his defensive options as the club prepares for potential changes this summer.

Additionally, there is uncertainty surrounding the futures of midfielders Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka, with ongoing interest in West Ham captain Declan Rice.