Arsenal are hopeful of announcing a deal to sign Jurrien Timber from Ajax on Friday, football.london understands
Arsenal are hopeful of announcing the transfer of Ajax defender Jurrien Timber on Friday, football.london understands.
The Gunners had wanted to fly Timber out to Germany ahead of today's pre-season friendly against Nurnberg but a small contract issue meant it didn't work out. Still, the north London club are optimistic about confirming the deal tomorrow, with the player having already done his in-house media duties.
The Dutch international will arrive at the Emirates Stadium in a €40million (£34.2million) deal with a potential further €5million (£4.3million) in add-ons. Sporting director Edu was successful in negotiating down the Eredivisie side from their initial valuation of around £50million.
Despite his age, he is already very experienced at the highest level, playing over 121 times for Ajax's first team. During those performances, he earned plenty of plaudits, with Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk one of many to sing his praises.
“I wasn’t nearly as far along as he is now [at the same age],” Van Dijk said when asked about his compatriot last year. “I have nothing but praise for him.
"He is a great player and a true professional. He has so much potential.
"Hopefully he can develop further. Then it will be all right, I think.”
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