Arsenal Sign Defender Jurrien Timber From Ajax

Afimag.com –

Arsenal have completed the signing of Netherlands defender, Jurrien Timber from Ajax for £34 million.

BBC Sport reports that the 22-year-old’s fee could rise to £38.5 million as he joins the English Premier League side on a long-term deal.

Timber will boost Arsenal’s defence as French-borne centre-back William Saliba agreed a new four-year contract.

“We’re really excited Jurrien has joined us. He is a versatile young defender,” said Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta.

“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.”

The versatile Dutch defender, who can play in the centre of defence or at right-back, had been linked with Manchester United, while Bundesliga champions, Bayern Munich were also known to be interested.

He has won 15 caps for the Netherlands, including four at the Qatar World Cup, where he helped Louis van Gaal’s side reach the quarter-finals.

Timber said he has “always been a fan of Arsenal”, which stemmed from his brothers’ love for the North London club.

“They were always Arsenal fans, and I just loved seeing Arsenal play. They had big players, the way they played, the style. I just love the club,” said Timber.