Arsenal are preparing to make their second bid for Jurrien Timber, with Dutch reporters suggesting the Gunners are the defender’s ‘dream’ move.
The Daily Mail report that Arsenal are preparing to increase their offer for Jurrien Timber, after seeing their opening bid of £30m turned down.
Ajax are looking for £50m to sell, and the Mail claim Timber is also being targeted by Manchester United.
But Mikel Arteta is a big fan of the player, and Arsenal are looking to increase their bid to secure a transfer.
Dutch journalist Mike Verweij told De Telegraaf’s Kick-off podcast that Timber is focused on a move to Arsenal, with Bayern Munich seemingly as a backup.
“Timber has said from the very first moment that he only wants to leave Ajax for an absolute top club,” Verweij said (via Sport Witness).
“He doesn’t listen at all to other clubs that report after Arsenal and Bayern Munich.
“Even Bayern Munich, who have not yet made an offer, are still waiting. Because Arsenal are his dream and priority. He set his sights on that.”
Fabrizio Romano recently reported that Arsenal are advancing on a full agreement over Timber’s personal terms for a summer transfer.
The player has already accepted the move, with further negotiations between Ajax and Arsenal to follow.
Romano claims Arsenal will push to complete a deal in the coming hours and days, with the player considering the club an attractive project for his future.
Mike Verweij then reported for De Telegraaf that Arsenal and Ajax are expected to agree a fee for Timber, despite Arsenal’s initial bid for the defender being turned down.
Writing for The Athletic, David Ornstein confirmed that talks are progressing positively following Arsenal’s failed opening offer, and there’s optimism on all sides that an agreement will be reached.
Centre-back Timber has two years left on his contract, and he can also play at right-back or in midfield.
The Evening Standard wrote that a fresh bid is expected from Arsenal, after their £30m opening offer fell short.
Timber made 47 appearances for Ajax in the 2022/23 campaign, and the 22-year-old is also a Dutch international, playing 15 times for the national team.