Arsenal have signed Netherlands defender Jurrien Timber from Ajax for £34 million.
The versatile Dutch defender, who can play at centre-back or right-back, joins on a year four deal, and his transfer fee is expected to rise to £38.5m.
Arsenal beat off competition from Manchester United and Bayern Munich, who were reportedly interested.
“We’re really excited Jurrien has joined us. He is a versatile young defender,” said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta about the signing.
“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.”
JT12 ✍️ pic.twitter.com/Y3on2ZcKWC
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) July 14, 2023
Timber will bolster Arsenal’s defence that finished runners-up to Manchester City in a closely fought Premier League title race last season and qualified for the Champions League after a six-year absence. He is the Gunners’ second summer signing after the £60m capture of Kai Havertz from Chelsea.
The Dutchman has 15 caps for the Netherlands, including four at the Qatar World Cup, where he helped Louis van Gaal’s side reach the quarter-finals.
