Arsenal transfer news: Jurrien Timber could be the perfect summer signing in north London if the Gunners are to continue their upwards trajectory
Arsenal have endured a drastic change to their transfer strategy in recent years which has led them to the pinnacle of English football. The signings made over the past three years have provided Mikel Arteta with the necessary tools to compete for the Premier League title for the first time since 2016.
In his place, four-time Premier League winner Kyle Walker slotted in and became the first man to keep Gabriel Martinelli in his back pocket. That's the difference.
There's an array of quality defenders dotted around Europe. And one centre-back who could come at a reasonable price is Ajax's Jurrien Timber. The Netherlands international - valued at €42million (£37.1million) by transfermarkt - has long seemed destined to join Lisandro Martinez, Antony and Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, though he penned a new deal in Amsterdam last summer.
However, the 21-year-old has revealed the perfect green light for a summer move. "My transfer is getting closer," he told Telegraaf. "There is a lot of specific interest for the summer.
"Last summer, Ajax asked me to renew my contract and to stay for one more season. Out of love for the club, I did this."
Timber has proved his quality in the Eredivisie. This season, he has completed 91.8% of his passes and boasts tremendous ability in defence. Despite Ajax's struggles this season, Timber has continued to catch the eye and is likely to secure a transfer away in the summer.
His attributes make him a great defender. But Timber comes with the versatility to play at right-back, just like Ben White. His signature could present Arteta with the opportunity to bring White back to his natural position at centre-back, killing two birds with one stone.
Arsenal will have to present a convincing case to beat Man United to his signature. One tool they can use is the successful route to the first team in north London, as seen with Saliba and Gabriel.
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