In a recent report, Algemeen Dagblad stated that Arsenal could recruit Ajax defender Jurrien Timber this week. It has been claimed that the Gunners are eyeing a move to secure the services of the Dutch centre-back soon.
Timber’s Impressive Campaign At Amsterdam
Timber enjoyed a solid campaign at the Dutch club after putting in a string of dominant displays for them on the defensive third of the field. The Ajax star was involved in 47 matches last season, registering two goals and two assists in the process across all competitions.
The 22-year-old has given a good account of himself when defending inside his half as he averaged 1.4 tackles, 1.2 interceptions and 1.9 clearances per game in the Dutch Eredivisie. He has even been careful when distributing the ball from the back as evidenced by his pass success rate of 91.7% in the Dutch top-flight (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Dutch club will run out in the summer of 2025, so it won’t be easy for the Gunners to land him on the cheap this year.
What Will Timber Bring To Arsenal?
Timber can scan the danger quickly to secure the ball back for his team inside his half. He usually clears his lines when the opposition are on the offensive and is proficient at playing his way out from the back. The Dutch talent mainly functions as a central defender but can also fill in as a right-back if asked to do so. He is a player on the rise which makes him a good option for the Gunners to pursue in the long run.
We can expect Timber to bring more bite and steel to Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta’s defence. He has what it takes to fight for a regular starting place at the North London club in the upcoming campaign.
At 22, Timber has his best years ahead of him which makes him an ideal signing for the Gunners to pull off ahead of the new season. He might even help Arteta’s side challenge across all fronts in the coming years. However, it remains to be seen whether Timber can cope with the physical nature and high intensity of Premier League football if Arsenal can devise a way to bring him on board in this off-season.
