Jurrien Timber Joins Arsenal For £34 Million

Arsenal have completed the signing of Dutch defender Jurrien Timber after paying Dutch club Ajax, a transfer fee worth £34 million.

As a result of the 22-year-old’s long-term contract, Timber’s price might rise to £38.5 million via add-ons.

Before Jurrien Timber agreed to join Arsenal, Manchester United and Bayern Munich were making efforts to sign the versatile footballer who can play as a right-back and as a centre-back.

Timber has 15 caps for the Netherlands, including four at the World Cup in Qatar, in which he played a key role in the team’s journey to the semifinals under Louis van Gaal.

After completing his move to the Premier League club, Jurrien Timber said he has always been an Arsenal fan and enjoyed watching the north London club play.

“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,” he told Arsenal’s official website.

“I had this from a young age, but my brothers kind of put that in me. I liked watching Robin van Persie of course, and Thierry Henry. They were my favourite players.”

While Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta described the Netherlands international as a “versatile young defender” who the club is excited to have.

The Spanish tactician added, “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.”