Arsenal set to sign Dutch international

Arsenal are close to adding Jurrien Timber to their ranks from Ajax which will take summer spending close to £200m. 

Talks are reportedly at an advanced stage with a fee set to be finalised between the clubs with Arsenal keen to get a deal wrapped up over the weekend.

The fee is likely to be £36m with add-ons shining a light on the sign of intent Mikel Arteta has when it comes to strengthening his side.

Timber is expected to fill the current void at right-back which will mirror Zinchenko’s role at left-back, giving Arsenal an attacking option on the right-hand side.

With Kai Havertz already through the door at the Emirates and Declan Rice expected to sign, Timber will be a continuation of a productive summer so far for the Gunners.

What will Jurrien Timber bring to Arsenal?

Arsenal currently have Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu who have both been deployed at right-back last season. However, neither player are forward-thinking player with Timber bringing in something different.

Having come through at Ajax, Timber will fit seamlessly into the backline at Arsenal. Naturally, he’s comfortable in possession, agile and adept at turning making him light-footed with the ball. An important skill when facing sides who operate a high press.

Timber recognises situations and similar to Rice, will operate a safety-first mentality in possession as opposed to taking unnecessary risks with the ball.

Ensuring the defence is composed and full of depth will be high on the agenda for Arteta and Timber brings those attributes to the table in abundance.

Is Timber needed?

Arsenal became threadbare at centre-back last season with injuries to Tomiyasu and William Saliba towards the end of the campaign.

Adding Timber will undoubtedly add some much-needed options in the defensive third for the Gunners. With White, Gabriel, Saliba, Tomiyasu and now Timber all capable of playing at centre-back, there is seemingly plenty of depth.

Additionally, Arteta is bringing in a player who fits the profile he needs both in and out of possession in his team.